Students to receive T-level results

Tomorrow, the first group of the new T-level students will receive their results.

T-levels are an alternative to A-levels, apprenticeships, and other 16-19 courses.

They focus on vocational skills and are equivalent to 3 A-levels. The T-levels can help pupils get into skilled employment, higher study or apprenticeships.

The first 3 T-levels were launched in September 2020, and a further seven were introduced in September 2021.

Ahead of tomorrow’s results, here are some case studies of T-level students who have secured a university offer, apprenticeship, or job from their course.

Shechinah Ashamed studied the Digital Design and Development T-level at La Retraite Catholic School for Girls in Clapham. 

She is keen to become a role model for other black women and break the stigma of IT being a male-dominated profession.

Shechinah said: “I didn’t start with an IT background, but doing it now has been eye-opening and I feel like I am performing to the best of my ability learning these new skills.”

As part of her course, Shechinah completed a placement in the Department of Transport.

There, she learnt about Google Analytics, IT programming, service security and key business skills.

Since then, she has secured an offer to study Cyber Security and Ethical Hacking at Coventry University.

Shechinah said: “It’s opened so many doors and opportunities that I thought I’d never have and I am proud of myself, so it is good to be your own hero.”

Meanwhile, Kinnari Khodiara took a T-level course in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction at Loughborough College in Leicestershire.

After an industry placement with Sandicliffe, a mechanic company in Leicester, she has been offered a three-year apprenticeship with the firm.

This will enable her to develop her skills whilst doing paid work.

Kinnari said: “T-levels are a great way to learn and get hands on with a job unlike a normal course where you are sat at a desk and looking through books.

“I would definitely recommend T-levels, as you gain an understanding of what needs to be done in the industry you’re about to work in and how a real business works day to day.”

T-level courses have been developed in collaboration with employers and education providers, so that they meet industry needs and prepare students for entry into skilled employment.

They offer pupils both practical and knowledge-based learning, with both school or college time and an on-the-job placements which last approximately 45 days.

Aaron Bayliss wants to be a teaching assistant in a special educational needs school. 

He studied a T-level at Strode College in Somerset that was a good option for progressing his career.

As part of his T-level, Aaron completed a work placement that allowed him to learn a range of new skills.

Aaron said: “I really enjoy the work placement part of the course. 

“I am learning many skills at the placement which makes it very rewarding. 

“The support that I receive form the learning support assistants is amazing and they have fully supported me throughout my journey at Strode College.”

An additional six T-levels will be launched next month.