Abbie Hannaby - Careers and Employability Co-ordinator

As a Careers Coordinator and a T Level Ambassador, I support T Level learners throughout their industry placements, helping them gain valuable real-world experience that complements their studies. My role involves working closely with employers to source and coordinate placements, ensuring both learners and businesses have a positive and successful experience. 

One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is seeing learners develop their confidence, skills and career aspirations while in the workplace. Industry placements are a key part of T Levels, providing learners with the opportunity to apply their learning in a professional environment and prepare for their future careers.

When considering how T Levels fit into the wider qualifications landscape alongside A Levels, apprenticeships and other vocational routes, I see them as another excellent option for learners. Every learner is different, and it's important that there are a range of pathways available. T Levels offer the best of both worlds by combining academic study with substantial industry experience, making them ideal for learners who want to gain practical skills while continuing their education.

T Levels are particularly important for learners looking to develop the knowledge and practical skills needed for their chosen career, as they give learners the chance to put their learning into practice in a real work environment. Through their industry placement, learners can build confidence, develop valuable workplace skills and gain first-hand experience of their chosen sector. This helps them understand what employers are looking for and gives them a real advantage when progressing into employment, apprenticeships or further study.

Employers also play a vital role in shaping the future of T Levels and ensuring learners are prepared for the workplace. As part of my role, I work closely with employers to arrange and support industry placements, and I've seen first-hand the difference they make. By welcoming learners into their workplaces, providing guidance and sharing their expertise, employers help young people develop the confidence and skills they need to succeed in their future careers.

To ensure T Levels remain accessible and relevant to a diverse range of learners while maintaining high standards, I believe it's about providing the right support while keeping learner success at the centre of everything we do. Every learner's journey is different, so it's important to help them overcome barriers and make the most of the opportunities available to them. Strong support, high-quality teaching and meaningful industry placements all contribute to maintaining high standards and ensuring learners have the best possible experience.

Finally, for employers or learners who are still unfamiliar with T Levels and the opportunities they offer, I'd encourage them to find out more and get involved. For learners, T Levels offer a unique opportunity to combine classroom learning with meaningful industry experience. For employers, hosting a placement is a fantastic way to support young people, bring fresh ideas into the workplace and help develop future talent for their industry.