T Levels: A New Era of Technical Education – Everything You Need to Know

What are T Levels?

T Levels are a relatively new qualification that was introduced into education in September 2020. They are aimed at equipping learners with both the practical skills and knowledge needed for employment, apprenticeships, or to progress into higher education.  

These qualifications take the same amount of time to complete as A-Levels; however, they adopt an industry-focused approach, which means it combines around 80% of classroom learning with around 20% of industry placements. With this substantial emphasis on placements, it also means learners gain invaluable hands-on experience that mirrors real-world challenges 

Why should I study a T Level?

They are equivalent to three A-Levels! Upon the completion of a T Level, learners will receive a nationally recognised certificate, demonstrating their commitment to excellence and readiness to enter the workforce or continue their academic journey with confidence.  

T Levels are also created in partnership with employers, meaning they ensure that the skills and knowledge imparted resonate with the true demands of various industries.  

T Levels can also lead to an accelerated apprenticeship, which is where the knowledge and skills you gained during a T Level can be considered as prior learning when starting an apprenticeship. Which means that the apprentice can complete their apprenticeship faster. 

Exploring T Level subjects

Here at Dearne Valley College we offer T Levels in Animal Care and Management and Health.

Take a look at our webinar: T Levels at Dearne Valley College

The Animal Care and Management T Level program invites learners to dive into an engaging curriculum that lays the groundwork for learners to go into amazing careers such as zookeeping, wildlife care, dog handling, and various other areas of the pet industry.  

Throughout the course, you will get the chance to work hands-on with all kinds of animals. From large animals to cherished household pets, exotic species, and even rodents. You will gain valuable experience that deepens your understanding and appreciation for animal welfare, health, safety, and management. Between the mixture of classroom learning and placement, it will further enhance your knowledge, technical skills, and behaviours for working in this exciting sector! 

The T Level in Health offered at Dearne Valley College is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary for a career in the healthcare sector. This course combines classroom learning with hands-on experience as you will spend 315 hours on clinical placements, where you will develop essential clinical skills in a professional setting. Whilst in the classroom, you will delve into a range of topics such as human biology, first aid, legislation, and clinical assessments. 

Progression routes after completing the course can take you into careers such as social work, paramedics, adult and child nursing, learning disability nursing, mental health nursing and more! 

The importance of industry placements

Placements within T Levels provide an exceptional opportunity for learners to form connections with industry professionals and gain a deeper understanding of their chosen career path, and it also helps you build up your confidence in a professional setting.  

Industry placements also offer a multitude of benefits for employers as well as learners. They provide employers an opportunity to identify potential talent, allowing businesses to potentially recruit them after their education, which will support with the skill shortages industries face.  

Placements also offer a chance to shape the future workforce by imparting valuable industry knowledge and experience to learners, potentially leading to a pipeline of skilled graduates. Learners can also offer fresh perspectives in the workplace by introducing innovative ideas and new approaches to the workplace, therefore enhancing the company.  

Ultimately, industry placements can enhance an organisation’s reputation as a forward-thinking and socially responsible employer. 

How to apply and prepare for T Levels

Preparing for your T Level course is an exciting step towards your desired career path, so here are some tips to help you get prepared:  

1. Time management

Use time management tools such as planners and calendar apps to help you to organise your schedule.  

2. Preparing for the work placement

Practice good communication skills, practice being punctual, and try to have a positive attitude. Look up the company, read its values, and expectations.  

3. Build relationships

Network with other students and professionals to help form support networks within the industry.  

4. Embrace challenges

View them as opportunities for growth and learning; don’t let challenges get you down.  

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With these tips in mind, you can effectively prepare for your T Level course and set yourself up for success in your future career.  

To find out more about our T Level offerings and courses, please contact us on 01709 513355 or send us an email at learn@dearne-coll.ac.uk.  

If you are ready to apply, you can apply now on our website at www.dearne-coll.ac.uk/apply-now/.