T-levels are a brand-new qualification choice that will follow GCSEs and give students a head start towards the career they want. Similar to an apprenticeship where students combine their time in the workplace and classroom, T-level students will spend the majority of their time in the classroom and are more suited to those who know what occupation or industry they want to move into. They are the equivalent to studying three A-levels and will suit students who wish to start working towards a skilled occupation, prefer a practical approach to learning and want a predominantly classroom-based course. As well as classroom-based studies, students will also undertake an industry placement with one of our partners. The placement will be a minimum of 45 days over the two-year period.
Benefits to an Employer
Immediate benefits
- Extra resources for your projects and day-to-day operations from students developing skills in a course relevant to your business and industry
- Allow your employees to develop management and mentorship skills
- Bring a fresh perspective into your business
- CSR impact: share with stakeholders how your business has supported local young people into industry placements, improving their employability and progression opportunities.
Long term benefits
- Inspire the next generation to work in your industry
- Address current and future skills shortages in your industry
- Strengthen your recruiting pipeline and increase diversity
- Shared value: benefits for business and society are correlated – increased social inclusion leads to new business opportunities.
FAQ
WHAT IS THE ROLE OF THE EMPLOYER IN A T-LEVEL?
Employers will offer students a 3-month work experience within their business. This might be in the form of a block release placement or in chunks of on the job activity. Employers will mentor the young people they take on in the same way they would any new member of staff.
WHY ARE T-LEVELS GOOD FOR BUSINESS?
Employers have constantly maintained that young people do not have the kind of basic employability skills they need, skills like time-keeping, team working and the ability to work with a range of people, so this new qualification will allow them to develop this skill set. Employers will also have the ability to assess the skill set of potential future employees in a way that would lend itself to future recruitment.
WHO ARE T-LEVELS FOR?
T-Levels are ideal for young people moving on from GCSE studies who want to combine a practical approach to studying with academic skills. A central part of the T-Level programme is a 3-month industry placement with an employer.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A T-LEVEL AND AN APPRENTICESHIP?
T Levels will include about 20% of the time being spent on a work placement with 80% being spent in the classroom. This differs to an Apprenticeship which is typically 80% in employment and 20% in the classroom.
WILL I PAY A WAGE TO THE STUDENT WHILST THEY ARE ON WORK PLACEMENT WITH ME?
No, employers will not have to pay a wage when students are studying on a T-Level they are simply on a work placement with you.