An introduction to T Levels

Staying informed on post-16 choices

There is a wide array of choices on offer to young people when they finish their GCSEs, which can feel overwhelming both for parents and for the young people themselves. It’s important for students to consider what they’re passionate about, what they’re good at and how the qualification they choose to study can aid their long-term ambitions. For parents, it’s about staying up-to-date and open to the various routes on offer.

There are many resources available that can help young people make an informed decision. For example, most schools will offer some version of careers advice for students, but it’s also worth remembering places like the National Careers Service (NCS). Their trained advisers can provide advice about all the post-16 and post18 choices and can be accessed by anyone over sixteen, whether they’re in full-time education or not.

Aside from outside advice and guidance, parents and carers often have an influence over the path a young person takes, so it’s important to stay clued up on the various routes available so that useful discussions can be had with them. From T Levels to A Levels, apprenticeships to Higher Technical Qualifications, being aware of what each route has to offer is important to help young people make an informed and supported choice about their future.

One of the routes available is T Levels. This is the newest post-16 qualification on offer and is available for students aged sixteen to nineteen years old.

T Levels are broadly equivalent in size to three A Levels and focus on technical and vocational skills, combining study with an industry placement so that young people gain valuable work experience in their chosen sector. These pioneering new qualifications have been designed in collaboration with leading employers to provide the skills that businesses across the country need. The subject areas on offer reflect some of the top growth areas such as digital skills, health and construction. T Levels offer various opportunities upon completion, from going straight into skilled employment, to enrolling for an apprenticeship or going on to study in higher education.

Completing a T Level is just one of the choices available after GCSEs. For young people who would prefer to earn while they are learning and want to work alongside experienced professionals, an apprenticeship may be the right choice. Meanwhile, those who are eighteen or over and would like a practical, employer-led study programme may want to look at HTQs.

RAY LE-TAROUILLY Career Adviser at the National Careers Service

nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/ explore-your-education-and-trainingchoices/t-levels