My name is Sean, and I studied the Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction T Level at Weston College. I chose this course because I liked the fact that it included an industry placement, meaning I could gain practical, hands-on experience on construction sites as well as learning in the classroom. I felt this would give me a better understanding of the construction industry and help me develop the skills needed for a future career in the sector.

Throughout the course, I developed my skills in CAD software and gained knowledge of different areas of construction, including quantity surveying, project management and the responsibilities involved in various construction roles. The course also gave me the opportunity to apply what I had learnt in a real working environment through my industry placement, where I gained valuable experience of how construction projects operate day to day.

Some of my most memorable moments at college were the trips we took during the first year, including visits to the NEC. These were great opportunities to learn more about the industry, see different aspects of construction and get to know the rest of the class. These experiences helped make the course more enjoyable and gave us the chance to learn outside the classroom.

I completed my industry placement with Alun Griffiths, where I worked alongside one of their senior engineers on the BSIP Queensway scheme and the Junction 21 scheme. During my placement, I learnt how to use a total station and developed a much better understanding of the different responsibilities within a construction team. Being involved in live projects allowed me to see how the skills and knowledge I had gained at college were applied in practice, while also learning from experienced professionals working in the industry.

I began my placement in November 2025 and, earlier this year, I was offered a job as an Apprentice Engineer with Alun Griffiths. I believe I secured this opportunity by being reliable, showing up consistently and demonstrating my knowledge, skills and willingness to learn. Building relationships with the team and showing that I could contribute to the work being carried out helped me make a positive impression and progress towards my career goals.

My T Level confirmed that civil engineering was the career I wanted to pursue, as it allowed me to explore the industry in more depth and gain a clearer understanding of what the role involves. The industry placement was particularly valuable because it helped me develop many of the practical skills I will need as a civil engineer. It has also given me greater confidence and made me feel more prepared as I progress onto my HNC.

I would definitely recommend T Levels to anyone considering a career in construction. They provide a great balance between classroom learning and practical experience, allowing you to develop useful skills while gaining an insight into different job roles and what they involve on a day-to-day basis.

The industry placement is a particularly valuable part of the course, as it gives you the opportunity to put your learning into practice, build relationships with employers and potentially secure a job or apprenticeship. For me, the T Level was an important step towards becoming a civil engineer, and it has helped me build a strong foundation for my future career.