Level 3
Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction, T Level
Level 3
Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction, T Level
Shape the future of the built environment with this employer-designed T Level. Combining classroom learning with a substantial industry placement, you'll develop the technical knowledge, digital skills, and practical experience needed for a career in surveying, civil engineering, design, or construction project planning.
Course Overview
The Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction T Level has been developed in partnership with leading employers to provide a technical alternative to A Levels for students interested in professional careers within the construction industry. Equivalent to three A Levels, this two-year qualification combines in-depth classroom learning with an extensive industry placement, preparing you for employment, higher apprenticeships, or university.
Based at Weston College's South West Skills Campus, you will learn in industry-standard facilities equipped with specialist surveying equipment, digital engineering software, and modern construction technologies. You will be taught by experienced industry professionals who bring extensive knowledge of the construction and built environment sector into the classroom.
A key feature of this programme is the 315-hour industry placement, where you will gain valuable experience working alongside professionals within the construction industry. Weston College works closely with leading employers including Wessex Water, Galliford Try, Balfour Beatty, and other regional partners, helping you develop practical workplace skills while building valuable professional connections.
As a member of Weston College's Construction Career Excellence Hub, you will benefit from employer networking opportunities, site visits, guest speakers, recruitment events, and industry masterclasses, ensuring you graduate with both the technical knowledge and professional confidence employers are looking for.
What will I study?
You will develop a broad understanding of the construction industry before specialising in your chosen area.
Core topics include:
• Health and safety within construction • Construction science and the built environment • Building design principles • Surveying techniques and accurate measurement • Construction methods and technologies • Relationship management and customer service • Digital engineering techniques • Mathematical principles for construction • Construction planning and design processes • Sustainability and environmental impact • Business, commercial awareness, and corporate social responsibility
You will also study specialist topics including:
• Project management • Budgeting and resource allocation • Procurement • Risk management
During the programme, you will specialise in one of the following pathways:
• Surveying and Design for Construction and the Built Environment • Civil Engineering • Hazardous Materials Analysis and Surveying
You will also complete a minimum of 315 hours of industry placement, giving you valuable experience within a professional construction environment.
How will I be assessed?
Assessment combines practical, project-based, and external assessment methods.
Assessment includes:
• Externally set written examinations • Employer-set project • Practical occupational specialist assessments • Industry placement activities • Synoptic practical assignments
This combination of assessment ensures you demonstrate both your technical knowledge and your ability to apply it in realistic workplace situations.
Additional Information
Throughout your course, you will benefit from:
• Membership of Weston College's Construction Career Excellence Hub • Access to industry-standard surveying and construction facilities • Specialist digital engineering software and equipment • A minimum of 315 hours of industry placement • Partnerships with employers including Wessex Water, Galliford Try, and Balfour Beatty • Guest lectures from construction professionals • Site visits and industry masterclasses • Career planning and progression support
The substantial industry placement is a key part of the programme, allowing you to develop practical workplace skills, build professional networks, and gain experience that will support your progression into employment or higher education.
Entry Requirements
• GCSE English at Grade 4 or above • GCSE Maths at Grade 4 or above
Applications are considered individually, and we welcome students who demonstrate enthusiasm for construction, engineering, and the built environment.
What can I do after this course?
Successful completion of this T Level provides excellent progression opportunities into employment, apprenticeships, or higher education.
You could progress to:
• Higher Apprenticeships • Degree Apprenticeships • HNC Construction and the Built Environment • Civil Engineering degrees • Quantity Surveying degrees • Construction Management degrees • Building Services Engineering degrees • Architecture and Built Environment programmes
Career opportunities include:
• Assistant Quantity Surveyor • Civil Engineering Technician • Surveying Technician • Construction Design Technician • Building Services Technician • CAD Technician • Site Engineering Technician • Project Planning Technician • Construction Project Coordinator • Building Information Modelling (BIM) Technician
The combination of technical knowledge and extensive industry placement means you'll be well prepared to progress directly into the construction industry or continue your studies at a higher level.
