T-Levels are coming; what you need to know

T-Levels are a recently launched qualification in England and Wales which will begin to be delivered in Buckinghamshire from September 2021. Designed to sit-alongside Apprenticeships and A-Levels, T-Levels are for students age 16-19 who have already sat their GCSEs.

The biggest reform to vocational training in a generation, T-Levels will replace many of the current technical qualifications young people study in a further education. Equivalent to 3 A-Levels, a two-year T-Level course focuses on vocational skills and can help students into skilled employment, higher study or apprenticeships.

Designed in consultation with employers to develop work “ready” candidates

Research in Buckinghamshire and nationally has shown the many employers report concerns about young people leaving school or college lacking practical work experience. Every T-Level student will complete over 1,800 hours of training including a compulsory industry placement that lasts a minimum of 315 hours (approx. 45 days). The aim of the industrial placement is to equip young people with necessary work experience and skills to start their careers in a strong position.

The government worked alongside more than 220 employers to design courses that deliver the right type of skills that businesses need. Employers that contributed to the consultation range from small businesses through to larger household names such as Fujitsu, Skanska and GlaxoSmithKlein.

Benefits to employers

  • Allow you to offer high-quality on the job training to fill the skills gap
  • Early access to talent ready for an entry-level or apprenticeship role, this is a great opportunity to work with a young person at the start of their career
  • A fresh perspective from young people to help drive innovation in your business
  • Cost-effective recruitment channel
  • Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). By creating a work placement, you are demonstrating your commitment to helping young people in your community to gain the necessary skills to prepare for their working career.

T-Level Course options available from September 2021

  • Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction
  • Digital Production, Design and Development
  • Education and Childcare

Further courses will roll out over the next two years to a total of 24 T-Levels.

For more information on T-Levels for employers visit the dedicated website.

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