Have you heard of T Levels?

If you haven’t heard about them yet, T Levels are a qualification that was introduced in England in September 2020 for students aged 16+. They are two-year courses which reflect the reality of the industry you study and will become one of the main choices for students after GCSEs.

What is a T Level?

T Level (Technical Level) courses are an alternative to A Levels, Apprenticeships, and other qualifications for students. One T Level is worth the equivalent of 3 A Levels, in terms of both UCAS points and space on the timetable. Like Apprenticeships, T Levels have been developed in collaboration with employers, such as IBM, Lloyds Bank and EDF Energy who have been amongst many sitting on T Level development panels. This means that the content within the courses is up to date and reflects the needs of the industry.

Students can earn Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction* grades. Grades will be calculated on a combination of assignment-based assessments and some tests.

The idea of T Levels is to help young people become ‘work-ready’, which will benefit both them and the employer.

Can I still apply to University with T Levels?

Yes. Both A Levels and T Levels hold UCAS points, meaning you can apply to university with either qualification.

What qualifications do I need to study a T Level?

T Levels require a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 9-5.

A T level transition programme has been introduced as a 1-year post-GCSE bridging programme into T-Levels. Its aim is to help those who would like to do a T level but need additional support before doing so. The transition programme includes technical, Maths, English and digital skills linked to the T level as well as work experience and personal development. Here is a list of providers delivering the programme in 2022 to 2023.

What subjects can I do a T Level in?

At the moment, there are:

Building Services Engineering

Digital Business Services

Digital Support Services

Health

Healthcare Science

Onsite Construction

Science

Education and Childcare

Digital Production, Design and Development

Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction

Building Services Engineering for Construction

September 2022 Onwards

Accountancy

Designand Development

Financial

Human Resources

Legal

Maintenance, Installation and Repair

Management and Administration

Manufacturing, Processingand Control

September 2023 Onwards

Agriculture, Land Management and Production

Animal Care and Management

Catering

Craft and Design

Cultural Heritage and Visitor Attractions

Hair, Beauty and Aesthetics

Media, Broadcast and Production

Go to www.tlevels.gov.uk/students and scroll down and enter your postcode, and a list of local colleges will be displayed.

Further resources to aid your decision…

Watch industry placement videos to hear from students and employers who have benefited from T Level industry placements.