News and events

What is a T Level? 

T Levels are a new and emerging Further Education (FE) qualification that are available to all learners aged 16 to 19. It is the perfect blend of 20% theoretical knowledge and 80% practical experience to provide the learner with a holistic understanding of the industry. This not only improves the learners' skills and confidence, but it also provides invaluable hands-on experience and networking opportunities. 

It is difficult and daunting to know what you want to do after you finish here at Weston College, but once you have completed your T Level, there are many different progression routes available to you, whether that is a Degree Apprenticeship, University, or full-time employment. 

Degree Apprenticeship: 

You could choose to further your hands-on experience by applying for a Degree Apprenticeship and get a fully funded degree whilst earning a salary. Degree Apprenticeships are increasing in popularity as they have the best of both worlds, allowing you to obtain a Higher Education (HE) degree whilst also getting real-world work experience which many employers value.  

One student, Ben, was a former Construction: Design, Surveying and Planning, T Level learner and completed his practical placement at Hydrock. Once his T Level was complete, Hydrock recognised Ben’s talent and hard work and kept him on as a degree apprentice through University Centre Weston (UCW). 

Ben said, “I have developed my technical skills and have had the chance to experience every aspect of different teams which has allowed me to broaden my overview of the industry and experience different areas that I could potentially go into.  

T Levels are definitely worth it! They’re concise and specific to the industry you’re interested in which gives you a great understanding of what to expect for the future.” 

University: 

On the other hand, T Levels do provide learners with UCAS points so you also have the option to go to university and further your knowledge of the subject. At the end of your T Level, you will achieve an overall grade of either a pass, merit, distinction, or distinction* which are equivalent in UCAS points to three A Levels. 

One learner, Grace, studied the Early Years Educator T Level and finished with a Distinction. Her work placement was completed at Stationhouse Nursery where she gained a lot of hands-on experience and got the opportunity to work there over summer. She has now progressed to Norland University which is famous for providing the very best early years training and education course. 

Grace said, “I would tell anyone considering a T Level to 100% go for it, especially if you have an idea of what you want to do!  

I think it is the best of both worlds, you will have UCAS points to go to university if you wish, but you also have the practical experience which sets you apart from everyone else and allows you to find a job straight away! It’s a lot of hard work but so worth it.” 

Employment: 

Alternatively, you can also go straight into work after completing your T Level. Many employers encourage work experience prior to employment which is exactly what a T Level provides due to the placement hours, but it also gives learners a large, theoretical knowledge base surrounding the subject. The practical element that a T Level provides is incomparable and is thought to be invaluable to employers. 

Jodine, a Business, Management and Leadership T Level learner, completed her T Level placement at Sytner Mercedes-Benz and was even offered employment after her T Level was complete. She worked hard throughout her placement, and it paid off, learning many skills and applying them excellently in practical scenarios. 

Jodine said, “I gained invaluable insights into each role and its responsibilities, enabling me to define my future career aspirations, which ultimately led to me getting an amazing job opportunity and joining the team. 

The challenges encountered during the placement have fortified my resilience, contributing to a comprehensive and enriched learning journey that seamlessly complements my academic curriculum. 

I would recommend a T Level because the work experience element of the course can open many doors.” 

Overall, T Levels are proving to be a fantastic opportunity for young adults to experience a real-life working environment and begin networking at an early stage. It allows them to experience the expectations and professionalism that an industry entails and put their theoretical knowledge into practice.  

If you are interested in applying for a T Level in September, click here. 

Weston College is delighted to announce its shortlisting for The Engineer’s 2024 Collaborate to Innovate (C2I) Awards in the highly regarded STEM Initiative category.

This recognition highlights the College’s successful collaboration with local, national, and global employers to inspire the next generation of engineers and drive meaningful change in the engineering sector.

Now in its ninth year, the C2I Awards were established to spotlight exemplary engineering collaborations that address complex societal challenges and advance innovation.

Tracie Leahy, Assistant Principal for Apprenticeships & Skills at Weston College, said: “We are honoured to be recognised for this prestigious award, which underscores the dedication and effort invested daily at Weston College to promote STEM education and engineering apprenticeships.

“We are immensely proud of the impactful work happening at the College, and the key partnerships we have with organisations within the industry, to drive change.

“I’d like to extend my best wishes to all the other nominees ahead of the award ceremony in February.”

If you would like to study engineering at Weston College, please click here.

If you’re an employer looking to partner with the college, then please click here.

It’s T Levels Week! 

Having only launched in 2020, T Levels have proved to be an excellent pathway in such a short time frame for many learners already.  Learners at Weston College have progressed onto apprenticeships, degree apprenticeships, university and full-time employment. 

You might be wondering, what exactly is a T Level? Well, let’s take a look: 

T Levels are two-year qualifications for 16- to 19-year-olds designed in collaboration with employers to provide a perfect blend of classroom learning and real-world experience.  

They are a fantastic alternative to A Levels and apprenticeships, ensuring that learners graduate with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to excel in their chosen fields. 

With a focus on subjects like healthcare, digital technologies, construction, engineering, and business, T Levels are directly aligned with industry needs, providing students with up to 45 days of workplace experience alongside their studies.  

This innovative approach bridges the gap between education and employment, giving young people a competitive edge in today’s job market. 

A big part of the T Level is the collaboration with employers, and you might be thinking how does that work? We asked some of our learners and their T Level employer for their thoughts:

Learners go on to a range of different progression routes, from university to full-time employment, we caught up with two learners, to find out how they’ve been getting on since completing their T Level: 

Which areas do Weston College offer T Levels in?  

Animal Management 

Our Animal Management T Level provides two unique pathways for learners to explore their passion for animals. The Behaviour pathway focuses on understanding animal psychology and training, preparing learners for careers in animal behaviour consultancy or rehabilitation. The Science pathway delves into animal health and biology, equipping students for roles in veterinary care or zoological research. 

Early Years 

In Early Years, learners can choose between two specialised pathways. The Early Years pathway is perfect for those aiming to work in childcare settings, focusing on child development and early education. The Assisting Teaching pathway provides the foundation for supporting learning in schools, ideal for those aspiring to be teaching assistants or educational support staff. 

Business 

The Business Management and Leadership T Level offers an excellent foundation for learners interested in the dynamic world of business. Whether aspiring to work in human resources, marketing, sales, or leadership roles, this course equips students with the strategic and operational skills to succeed in any sector. 

Construction 

The Construction T Level is tailored for learners passionate about the built environment. With a focus on the Design, Surveying, and Planning pathway, students gain the expertise to contribute to projects ranging from infrastructure to urban development, preparing for careers as architects, surveyors, or project managers. 

Digital 

Digital learners can specialise in one of two innovative pathways. The Production, Design, and Development T Level focuses on coding, software development, and digital creativity, preparing learners for roles in programming or app development. Alternatively, the Support Services T Level trains students in IT systems and infrastructure, paving the way for careers in network management and cybersecurity. 

Engineering 

The Engineering and Manufacturing T Level provides a comprehensive pathway into high-demand fields. Learners will master skills in mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing engineering, preparing for exciting careers in industries such as aerospace, robotics, or green energy. 

Legal 

The Legal Services T Level introduces learners to the world of law and justice. From exploring legal systems to gaining practical skills in client interaction and case management, this pathway is ideal for aspiring paralegals, legal executives, or those considering solicitor apprenticeships. 

Media 

Creative learners can thrive in the Media, Broadcast, and Production T Level, which combines technical expertise with storytelling. This pathway covers content creation, broadcasting, and production techniques, preparing students for roles in television, radio, or digital media industries. 

Science 

The Science T Level offers a deep dive into the exciting world of research and experimentation. Learners will develop practical skills in laboratory techniques and data analysis, opening doors to careers in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, or environmental science. 

If you would like to find out more about T Levels, click here.