Celebrating the Success of Universities Hosting T Level Industry Placements: The Story So Far

What a remarkable journey it’s been over the past ten months! After stepping away from the traditional classroom, hanging up my board rubber and pens, I’ve found myself on an incredible adventure that has far surpassed anything I imagined.

From engaging discussions with a former Minister, to filming a live webinar in professional studios, producing promotional videos, and collaborating with an inspiring technical workforce.

The involvement with universities so far has been nothing short of exhilarating. I’ve also had the privilege of witnessing the incredible energy and positivity of technical staff and T Level students as I travelled up and down the UK, all in the name of enhancing our future technical workforce.

My passion for T Levels stems from a deep belief that these qualifications are essential for nurturing the next generation of skilled professionals, and universities play a crucial role in their success. T Level technical qualifications offer a comprehensive curriculum that combines depth with practical experience, complemented by rigorous external assessments, equipping students to be perfect candidates for employment and higher education.

T Levels can be transformational

Universities across the country are witnessing first-hand the unique strengths and transformative potential of T Level students. We’re making substantial progress in the Science sector with industry placements hosted by Higher Education institutions, and the momentum is growing.

Leading the way are institutions such as University of Liverpool , University of Cambridge , Aston University , Cranfield University , The University of Manchester , Newcastle University , Northumbria University , University of Nottingham , Durham University and UCL among others, all of which are actively involved in this initiative.

The success is widespread. Currently, more than 23 universities and research institutions are working with the UK Institute for Technical Skills and Strategy (UK ITSS) either hosting or preparing to host placements, with an additional 30 eager to learn more about how they can get involved. More than 60 students have stepped into placements at universities, immersing themselves in environments that broaden their horizons and expose them to cutting-edge research and technology. These placements reveal career pathways they never imagined and helping them to develop critical skills needed in today’s job market.

Pioneering industry placements

The impact of these placements is clear. The University of Liverpool hired a T Level industry placement student on a casual contract over the summer, just months after the student started their placement. This isn’t just a success story; it’s concrete proof of the immense value T Level students deliver. The university recognised the student’s skills and potential, integrating them into their workforce, this is the essence of T Level success!

Another exceptional story comes from The University of Warwick, where they are pioneering placements in the engineering sector. Following an industry placement WMG, University of Warwick , a former T Level student has successfully progressed onto their apprenticeship scheme and is now employed by the university. They’ve experienced the value of these qualifications first-hand and are helping to pave the way for T Levels to be recognised as a key route into technical careers.

Cranfield University adopted a unique strategy by enabling one of their degree apprentice senior technicians to supervise a T Level laboratory science student during their placement. This not only enhanced the apprentice’s leadership skills but also bolstered their own knowledge and capabilities needed for their professional journey. It’s a brilliant example of how universities can leverage T Level placements for the benefit of both the students and their existing workforce.

From placements to progression

Durham University has recognised the value of their digital industry placement students and opened up opportunities to harness the students’ skills and retain their talent within the region. They have employed three of their T Level placement students, as full-time apprentices. One is undertaking a Data Engineer Higher Apprenticeship, while the others are studying towards a Digital and Technology Solutions Professional degree apprenticeship.

For universities, offering these placements can make them a compelling and attractive choice for prospective students and create a natural progression that we sorely need to nurture and encourage. As institutions, we must embrace the responsibility of removing potential barriers that hinder seamless transitions for these students, optimising their paths from T Levels into higher education or full-time industry positions. The good news? We’re already making significant strides! Universities are working hard to dismantle perceived obstacles, positioning industry placements as a sustainable and regular part of their offerings.

Future opportunities for growth

Is there more work to be done? Absolutely! The success we are seeing in the Science and Engineering sectors paves the way for a thrilling opportunity to replicate this momentum for T Level students in Digital, Management & Administration, and beyond. With 24 T Level pathways soon available, universities have an incredible chance to tap into a diverse talent pool, offering much-needed support in critical areas.

For universities yet to embrace T Level industry placements, now is the moment to act! Don’t miss out on the chance to actively shape the future of your institution and the skilled workforce of tomorrow. With an established network of universities ready to share their insights and the assistance of the UK ITSS to facilitate placements, support is readily available. Will you join us in shaping the future?

You can find our free T Level tooklkit here to help you start hosting T Level industry placements