T Levels are designed to bridge the gap between education and the workplace. For employers, this presents a unique opportunity to engage with a motivated and developing pool of talent while contributing to the training and growth of the future workforce.
At the heart of T Levels is the 45-day industry placement, a crucial opportunity for students to gain practical skills and for businesses to make a lasting impact on young talent. During these placements, students are immersed in the day-to-day operations of their host organisation. They are not just observers but active participants in meaningful projects that align with their area of study.
Employers are encouraged to involve students in real-world assignments, integrating them into teams and creating a collaborative learning environment. This hands-on involvement not only enhances students' technical and professional skills but also allows employers to evaluate their abilities and potential over an extended period.
Importantly, T Level placements can lead to longer-term opportunities. Employers have the option to offer students permanent positions or apprenticeships once they have completed both the placement and their course. This approach not only helps students transition smoothly into the workforce but also ensures employers can retain skilled, work-ready individuals who already understand the nuances of the organisation.
Become a T Level employer todayEngaging with the T Level programme is made simpler through a comprehensive range of support for employers. Schools, colleges, and training providers are committed to ensuring the process runs smoothly and efficiently, enabling businesses to focus on delivering impactful placements.
T Levels are a relatively new type of two-year qualification, developed in collaboration with employers to meet the demands of modern industries. They are equivalent to three A Levels and combine classroom learning with industry placements to ensure students gain the hands-on skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed for the workplace or further study.
There’s no obligation to pay students during their 45-day (or 315-hour) industry placement, but there is also nothing stopping employers from paying their placement students to create an extra incentive. It is entirely up to the employers’ discretion. Employers can also receive financial assistance from the DfE (Department for Education), in the form of ESF (Employer Support Fund) which could potentially assist with any pay you wish to give to a placement student or anything else such as training, equipment and workspace.
T Level industry placements are designed to be as flexible as possible, working in harmony with the student’s academic commitments. Placements can be organised in blocks, day release, or a combination of the two, depending on what suits your business operations. We work closely with you to create a schedule that accommodates your needs while giving the student meaningful exposure to your workplace.
When hosting a T Level student, you’ll be asked to provide a safe, welcoming, and supportive working environment. This includes ensuring the student has access to the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to learn and contribute effectively.
T Levels are a unique opportunity for employers to shape the next generation of talent. By taking on T Level students, companies can benefit from fresh perspectives, updated knowledge of industry advancements, and enthusiastic individuals eager to contribute.
It’s also a cost-effective way to test potential hires in a real-world setting. Many employers find placements to be a valuable resource for driving innovation and completing projects that may have been put on hold due to time or budget constraints.
Absolutely. Hosting T Level students can be an excellent way to assess their suitability for your organisation. Many employers choose to extend further opportunities to placement students, offering permanent roles, internships, or apprenticeships after they’ve completed their qualifications.
This creates a seamless talent pipeline, ensuring you gain team members who are already familiar with your business operations and culture. Investing in T Level students could be the key to securing the skilled and motivated workforce your business needs to thrive.