T Levels: Opening up a world of possibilities

T Levels are a new type of qualification for people who have finished their GCSEs. First introduced in 2020, they are slowly being introduced into colleges around the UK.  

We are proud to provide T Levels in the following areas, and plan to expand this exciting offer to other subjects: 

• Agriculture 

• Engineering & Manufacturing 

• Digital Production, Design & Development 

• Mental Health 

• Education & Early Years 

• Tree & Woodland Management 

• Design, Surveying and Planning 

• Animal Management 

What makes T Levels different from A Levels, apprenticeships, or other vocational courses, is that they open up a variety of different pathways. 

The two-year qualification has been created in consultation with employers and businesses, meaning that students can gain the practical skills that are actually needed in today’s workforce. With a mixture of 80% classroom study and 20% of the time spent in work experience placements, along with the chance to connect with local employers, you could progress straight into a job or take on an apprenticeship. 

But that’s not all. Because T Levels are equivalent to three A Levels, you will gain UCAS points, meaning that you could also choose to go to university and study at a higher level.  

Arlen Hunt has recently started a T Level in Engineering & Manufacturing at Cornwall College St Austell. He’s always been interested in engineering, as his dad works in the industry, installing sea turbines all over the world.  

One of the things that drew Arlen to the T Level was the choices that the course will give him. 

He said: “Because I wasn’t sure what route I wanted to take after college, I chose the T Level course, because I liked that it gave me the option to go to university if I want at the end of my course.  

“When I finish at Cornwall College, I’m looking to either go to university, or start and apprenticeship in one of the engineering services.” 

While Arlen only started the course in September, he’s already enjoying his studies.  

He said: “We’re currently focused on drawing, which some people apparently don’t like, but I really enjoy it; it’s my favourite bit! 

“This year, we’re doing a lot of theoretical learning, but next year will be mostly practical, and I’m really looking forward to that! We’ll be doing an employer-set project that will involve planning and building, which should be exciting.”  

To learn more about T Levels, and to find a course that opens up a world of possibilities for you, explore our current subjects.