A Guide to T Levels at East Durham College

T LEVELS THE NEXT LEVEL QUALIFICATION

A GUIDE TO T LEVELS AT EAST DURHAM

COLLEGE THE NEXT LEVEL

The new 2 year qualification that follows GCSEs.

Bringing classroom and industry placement together, giving you the knowledge and skills employers need.

A guide to T Levels at East Durham College.

With a T Level, you get the practical knowledge and skills you need to advance your career alongside a nationally recognised qualification.

We offer a carefully selected programme of T Level courses at East Durham College. All the T Levels we offer are skills priorities in the North East, meaning an increased chance of employment after successfully completing your course.

Plus, with state-of-the-art learning facilities, a wide range of industry placements, and fantastic extracurricular activities, it’s easy to see why we’re fast becoming the top choice for T Levels in the region.

Keep reading to learn more about our range of T Level courses and how to apply.

Leading businesses across the UK have actively contributed to creating and structuring these courses, which means you’re learning the skills that matter to modern companies.

A T Level is a brilliant alternative to an A Level for 16 to 19-year-olds, which combines Classroom theory and practical experience.

What is a T Level?

The ‘T’ in T Level stands for technical. These innovative qualifications are the gold standard in vocational training in England.

T Levels are just like A Levels in that they’re nationally recognised qualifications, and a full-time course lasts two years. However, you’re not just learning in the classroom; you’re also getting a taste of real work experience alongside your course. This means you get time to work and put what you learn into practice.

How do T Levels work?

The primary way T Levels differ from A Levels is that you take part in an extended industry placement, which must take place over at least 45 days. T Levels mean you spend about 80% of your time at college and 20% on a placement. With an industrial placement, you gain valuable workplace experience as well as soft skills like teamwork, problemsolving, time management, and communication. Some employers may even offer you a job or an advanced apprenticeship when you finish your course.

What qualification do I get at the end of my course?

A T Level is worth three A Levels. This means you get the UCAS points you need for further study at university if that’s the route you fancy. Alternatively, you have the practical and theoretical experience to go straight into your chosen career path or enrol on an apprenticeship.

Why should I do a T Level over an apprenticeship?

Like apprenticeships, T Levels combine classroom learning and practical work experience.

The difference is that T Levels focus more intently on classroom study. Apprenticeships are typically 80% on-thejob training and 20% classroom experience, while it’s the other way around with T Levels.

This means T Levels are the better option if you want to prepare for further training or university.

Is a T Level the right choice for me?

With T Levels you get first-class tuition from expert lecturers and amazing support from top-notch industry professionals on your work placement. It’s the best of both worlds!

Sounds great! What T Levels can I enrol on?

From September 2024, we will offer up to eight T Levels at East Durham College with plans to run more in 2025. So, you can study subjects from Digital Support Services to Health. Here are the different courses we offer – if you want to find out what you’ll be learning and what you can do with your qualification, just go to the relevant page of this brochure!

Future

Future

Future

Future

Future

Future

At East Durham College, we’re committed to providing our students with the very best learning experience through our cutting-edge facilities.

The Hospital Ward for Health and Social Care T Level is especially impressive with its authentic simulation of a hospital setting, featuring motorized hospital beds, realistic mannequins, and anatomical displays. This type of hands-on learning experience is invaluable for students entering the healthcare field.

The Digital Suite for Digital Support Services T Level showcases the college’s commitment to staying current with industry standards. Equipping students with high-spec gaming PCs, dedicated server cabinets, and access to advanced technology like DJI drones and 3D printers.

The revamped Grove Restaurant and Commercial Kitchens provides practical experience for catering students. Opening the restaurant to the public allows students to showcase their skills to real customers, and the expanded kitchen facilities contribute to a comprehensive training environment.

The Childcare Lecture Theatre and Nursery Observation Room for Education and Childcare T Level demonstrate a thoughtful approach to practical learning. The integration of a nursery observation room connected to Positive Steps, the on-site nursery, enables students to gain real-world insights into childcare practices.

The Motor Vehicle Workshop is equipped with everything you need, including cars, engine rigs, clutch rigs, car lifts, and specialist tools. Explore MOT testing, refrigeration systems for air conditioning units, and the art of building engines from scratch.

The Engineering Suite and Workshops offers a handson approach to mastering engineering concepts. From 3D printers to CAD machines, metal-cutting apparatus, including a ventilated welding workshop.

We invite you to experience the full scope of our facilities at our open evenings.

e sSeptember 2025-

COMING SOON

Comi n g noos weN- T sruocleveL

From September 2025, we are looking to also offer the following exciting T Level courses:

• T Level in Building Services Engineering for Construction (Plumbing and Heating)

• T Level in Animal Science

• T Level in Catering

• T Level in Craft and Design

• T Level in Media, Broadcast and Production

Free bus service

We’ve teamed up with Arriva to give you free bus travel to college and home again. In addition to the standard Arrvia network services, they also run a number of EDC college bus routes to make getting to and from East Durham College even easier.

Just show your college ID badge to jump on any Arriva bus during term time (Monday to Friday).

Agriculture, Land Management and Production (Trees and Woodland)

If you dream of working in nature and helping manage the forests of the future, this T Level will teach you everything you need to know. Study at our specialist land-based education facility at our Houghall Campus, on the outskirts of Durham City Centre.

Why study this course?

Developed in collaboration with employers in the agricultural, arboricultural, and forestry industries, this brand-new qualification will help you gain a thorough understanding of agriculture, land management, and the production industry. You’ll also gain a valuable specialism in tree and woodland management and maintenance.

You’ll learn at our specialist Houghall Campus with skilled and knowledgeable lecturers, all with practical experience in the arboricultural sector. For your industry placement, we’ll partner you with an organisation that will give you essential real-world experience and help you learn as you work.

What you’ll study

In this course, you’ll learn the fundamental theories and methods to manage and maintain trees and tree populations. You’ll also learn about arboriculture, environmental legislation, sustainability, and waste management principles.

How you’ll be assessed

Alongside your industry placement, there will be classroom-based projects and assignments, as well as externally set exams.

Entry requirements

To enrol on this course, you’ll need five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including maths, English and science.

Future study options

After this course, you can go on to study a Level 4 or 5 qualification in arboriculture.

Future careers

• Tree Surgeon

• Arborist

• Woodland Officer

• Forestry Worker

Building Services Engineering for Construction (Electrotechnical Engineering)

The construction and building services engineering industry is growing faster than ever before. Enrol on this exciting T Level and get the valuable knowledge and practical experience you need to succeed.

Why study this course?

This T Level is designed to help students gain employment and apprenticeship opportunities within the construction industry, as well as the emerging and fast-developing renewable energy technology market.

You’ll learn at our state-of-the-art Technical Academy at Peterlee, designed to simulate a realistic working environment for students and part of the North East Institute of Technology. For your industry placement, we’ll partner you with one of the region’s leading construction and engineering companies.

What you’ll study

On this course, you’ll learn about a wide range of building service systems. These include plumbing, heating, electrical power and lighting, mechanical ventilation, sanitation, air conditioning, fire and security systems, and renewable technologies.

How you’ll be assessed

All students will study engineering and have the choice of two occupational specialisms: electrotechnical systems services systems and controls or plumbing, heating, and sanitation services systems and controls.

The engineering part of the T Level is assessed by two externally set exams. The occupational specialisms are assessed by assignments and a practical workshop assessment. Learners must also complete an employer-set project that forms part of the industrial placement.

Entry requirements

To enrol on this course, you’ll need five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including maths, English and science (physics or chemistry). A digital or design and technology GCSE at grade 5 or above is highly desirable for this course.

Future study options

After this course, you can go on to higher education programmes like a Level 4 Diploma in Building Services Engineering or a Level 5 degree programme in Building Services Engineering.

Future careers

• Electrical Design Technician

• BIMS (Building Information Management) Technician

• Renewable Technologies Technician

• Energy Assessor

Digital Support Services

Digital technology is becoming an increasing part of our lives, and it’s essential to ensure that the hardware and software we use stays fast, reliable, and safe. With this T Level, you’ll learn the skills needed to move into this exciting, fast-paced industry.

Why study this course?

This T Level will cover all the knowledge and key concepts, theories and principles, as well as core skills, for the digital sector. This means you’ll be well-equipped to embark on a career as a digital practitioner. Our skilled and knowledgeable lecturers will fully support you every step of the way. Studying at our Peterlee Campus, our state-of-the-art Digital Lab will provide you with invaluable learning opportunities, coupled with an industry placement that fully supports your intended career path.

What you’ll study

You’ll learn how to:

• Apply procedures and controls to maintain the digital security of an organisation

• Install, configure, and support software applications and operating systems

• Discover, evaluate, and apply reliable sources of knowledge

How you’ll be assessed

Alongside your industry placement, there will be classroom-based projects and assignments, as well as externally set exams.

Entry requirements

To enrol on this course, you’ll need five GCSEs at grade 5 or above including English and maths at grade 6 or above.

Future study options

After this course, you can go on to higher education programmes to further your skills in a particular aspect of digital support, like cyber security or networking. Alternatively, you can progress into employment or an apprenticeship.

Future careers

• Support Engineer

• Solution Architect

• Business Analyst

• Infrastructure Manager

“Choosing a T Level course at East Durham College was a game-changer for me. The emphasis on work experience not only allowed me to broaden my skillset but also gave me industry insight into possible career paths. Thanks to the college’s support, I secured a placement at Durham University, giving me hands on experience and confidence to apply academic understanding into real-world situations. Initially considering university, the T Level experience has convinced me that a degree apprenticeship is the perfect path for me. I’m excited to continue learning, expanding my knowledge, and earning at the same time.”

Dylan Milburn 2nd Year Student - Digital Support Services T level

Education and Childcare

If you want to help children and young people be the best they can be, a career in education or childcare may be your calling.

Our T Level will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to be an effective practitioner.

Why study this course?

Designed in partnership with employers in the education and childcare sector, this course will help you develop the skills you need to progress into employment or higher-level training.

Our skilled and knowledgeable lecturers have diverse backgrounds and will support you through fun, dynamic, and innovative learning experiences. You’ll also develop valuable skills through industrial work placements.

What you’ll study

As part of this course, you’ll study a wide range of topics including child development, safeguarding, special educational needs, behaviour, and reflective practice.

How you’ll be assessed

As part of this course, you’ll study core components and be able to choose from occupational specialisms. Each core component is assessed by two written exams and an employer-set project. The occupational specialisms are assessed by assignment.

Entry requirements

To enrol on this course, you’ll need five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including maths and English.

Future study options

Upon completing this course, you can continue studying through an apprenticeship to grow your skills in the workplace. Alternatively, you can study a related subject at university, such as early years or teaching.

Future careers

• Early Years Practitioner

• Early Years Educator

• Education Technician

• Teaching and Support Assistant

Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing

Do you want to gain an overview of the breadth and diversity of the engineering industry and take the first step towards a specialised career? If the answer is yes, this T Level is a fantastic place to start your learning.

Why study this course?

This T Level has specifically been designed to help students gain employment in engineering and manufacturing. The course provides a comprehensive overview so students can decide on the specialism they want to focus on.

You’ll learn at our state-of-the-art Peterlee Campus, which is home to a number of facilities designed to simulate a realistic engineering working environment, including our brand new Institute of Technology Engineering Suite. For your industry placement, we’ll partner you with one of the region’s leading construction and engineering companies.

What you’ll study

As part of this course, you’ll study the production and manufacturing processes, product and project management, and quality assurance and quality control. You’ll also have the choice of studying fitting and assembly technologies or fabrication and welding technologies.

How you’ll be assessed

Alongside your industry placement, there will be externally set exams, centre-marked assignments, practical workshop assessments, and an employer-set project.

Entry requirements

To enrol on this course, you’ll need five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including maths, English and one science.

Future study options

Upon completing this course, you can continue studying through an apprenticeship, degree, or HND.

Future careers

• CAD Technician

• Fabricator

• Marine Engineer

• Process Engineer

Health

Want to work in the health industry but don’t know where to start?

This T Level will equip you with all the skills and knowledge you need to kickstart your career.

Why study this course?

This course provides the perfect blend of classroom learning, where you’ll learn core health concepts from skilled lecturers with diverse backgrounds in the sector, and a high-quality industry placement.

Based at our Peterlee Campus, you’ll get to spend loads of time training in our state-of-the-art training hospital and care ward, specially designed for learners to gain experience in a simulated real-life medical setting.

We have a dedicated industry placement officer who has excellent links with a substantial range of employers within the health sector, including a range of NHS service providers.

What you’ll study

As part of this course, you’ll study core topics including health and safety, safeguarding, managing personal information, and key science concepts. You’ll then have the option of studying specialist content depending on the career path you want to specialise in, for example, midwifery, adult nursing, or mental health.

How you’ll be assessed

Each core component is assessed by two written exams. The occupational specialisms are assessed by assignment.

Entry requirements

To enrol on this course, you need five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including maths, English and science.

Future study options

After completing this course, you can continue studying through an apprenticeship or university degree or go straight into employment.

Future careers

• Care Worker

• Dental Nurse

• Emergency Care Assistant

• Healthcare Assistant

Motor Vehicle Maintenance, Installation, and Repair Engineering

Do you have an interest in motor vehicles or a passion for fixing cars?

This T Level will provide you with the knowledge and practical experience you need to forge a career in the automotive industry.

Why study this course?

You’ll learn at our state-of-the-art Technical Academy at Peterlee, designed to simulate a realistic working environment for students and part of the North East Institute of Technology.

This T Level combines class-based learning with an industrial placement provided by local employers, meaning you get great practical experience, support, and training.

This course has been created and is supported by a wide range of best-inclass employers in the industry, including BMW, Nissan, and Siemens. This means you learn comprehensive skills that will put you in fantastic stead for your future career.

What you’ll study

This qualification will help you understand the engineering industry and the sector. You will cover topics including:

• Maintenance, installation, and repair

• Fault detection and diagnosis

• Isolation and resolution methods

• Communication for maintenance, installation, and repair activities

How you’ll be assessed

Alongside your industry placement, there will be classroom-based projects and assignments, as well as externally set exams.

Entry requirements

To enrol on this course, you’ll need five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including maths, English and science.

Future study options

After this course, you can start an apprenticeship or move on to higher education, for example, a BEng in Motorsport Engineering.

Future careers

• Motor Vehicle Breakdown Engineer

• Motor Mechanic

• Vehicle Body Repairer

• Vehicle Technician

Science

If you want practical experience in the science industry alongside high-quality classroom-based learning, the T Level in Science is a brilliant way to kickstart your science career.

Why study this course?

Whether you’re interested in working in a laboratory, hospital or the manufacturing sector, this T Level course will provide you with all the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.

You’ll learn at our ED6 Campus, where you’ll study with skilled lecturers with decades of experience in the field of science.

What you’ll study

As part of this course, you’ll study one core component and one occupational specialism component. The core component covers topics including health and safety, data handling, ethics, and scientific methodology.

How you’ll be assessed

The core component is assessed by two written exams and an employer-set project. The occupational specialism is assessed by assignments.

Entry requirements

To enrol on this course, you need five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English, you will also need the following:

• GCSE science grade 6 or above (6-6 in combined science)

• GCSE maths grade 6 or above

Future study options

This T Level gives you the skills and experience you need to move into an apprenticeship or enrol on a sciencebased degree at university.

Future careers

• Laboratory Technician

• Radiography Assistant

• Metrology Technician

• Food Manufacturing Inspector

Entry requirements

We want to ensure you excel on your T Level of choice, which is why we have entry requirements in place. You can find out more about the entry requirements of the specific T Level courses we offer in this brochure, as well as on our website www.edc.ac.uk/study/course-types/t-level

Some courses may have additional entry requirements in addition to exam results, for example, physical requirements or DBS checks.

All students will be regularly assessed during their course to make sure they are managing. There may be occasions when we transfer students onto another relevant course at a higher or lower level better suited to their needs and abilities.

Entry onto any course at East Durham College is subject to final approval from the Assistant Principal.

T Level Fees

If you start your T Level before the age of 19, there are no tuition fees to pay.

Important information

What a T Level certificate includes Your T Level certificate will include:

• An overall grade for the T Level (Pass, Merit, Distinction, Distinction*)

• A separate grade for the core component (A* to E)

• A separate grade for each occupational specialism (Pass, Merit, Distinction)

Pass (C or above on the core)

(D or E on the core)

The information in this brochure is (as far as possible) accurate at the time of publication. However, this information may be subject to change. We reserve the right to amend, withdraw, cancel, alter or merge any or part of the programme, locations, facilities or costs at any time.

T Level courses will run as long as enough students are enrolled. We recommend checking our website www.edc.ac.uk for the most up-to-date information before applying.

Get in touch

Got any questions about T Levels or studying at East Durham College?

Contact our friendly Student Services team who will be happy to help.

0191 518 8222 enquiries@eastdurham.ac.uk eastdurham.ac.uk

Alternatively, speak to our team using the chat option on our website.