T Levels at UTCN: Myths Busted & Your Questions Answered

What Are T Levels?

T Levels are a high-quality, industry-focused qualification designed to give students the skills, knowledge, and experience needed for technical careers. If you’re exploring options after GCSEs and want a programme that blends academic study with real-world experience, a T Level could be the perfect choice.

At UTCN, our T Levels are ideal for students who want to move beyond the classroom and gain hands-on experience in STEM industries such as engineering, digital, construction, and health.

How T Levels Work:

  • Equivalent to three A Levels

  • 80% classroom learning covering core knowledge

  • 20% industry placement (minimum of 45 days), applying skills in a real workplace

This isn’t just theory — it’s practical training for your future.

T Levels at UTCN: What We Offer

We currently offer T Levels in areas that align with UTCN’s specialist focus on STEM and technical careers. Our Sixth Form T Level pathways include:

All courses are developed with input from local and national employers, ensuring your learning is relevant, up-to-date, and career-focused.

T Level Myths: Setting the Record Straight

Myth 1: “T Levels aren’t as good as A Levels”

Truth: T Levels are full Level 3 qualifications, just like A Levels. They combine academic content with hands-on learning, carry UCAS points, and are accepted by universities across the UK, including Russell Group institutions.

Myth 2: “You can’t go to university with a T Level”

Truth: You absolutely can. A T Level Distinction* is worth 168 UCAS points, the same as three A*s at A Level. Universities increasingly value T Levels because they develop both knowledge and real-world experience.

Myth 3: “T Levels are easier than A Levels”

Truth: T Levels are challenging, requiring strong academic ability and a dedicated work ethic. They are not “easier” — they simply focus on applied learning and provide a clear route to work or higher study.

Myth 4: “The placement is just making tea and doing photocopying”

Truth: UTCN placements are meaningful, skill-building, and relevant. You’ll work on real tasks with genuine responsibility, not just menial duties.

Myth 5: “If I don’t find a placement, I’ll fail”

Truth: Our Employer Engagement Manager supports every student from day one, helping with placement applications, mock interviews, and CV workshops to ensure success.

Real Students. Real Experiences. Real Progress.

Meet Katie and Lewis, former T Level Science students at UTCN who completed placements at the world-renowned John Innes Centre. They didn’t just gain technical knowledge — they got to work alongside leading scientists, build professional networks, and explore careers they’d never considered before.

“Being in a real lab gave me so much more confidence in my skills. I could see how what we learned in class actually worked in practice.” – Katie

Their T Level experience helped shape their future paths, giving them a real edge when applying for apprenticeships, university places, or further study.

You can read more stories about our amazing students here

FAQs

How long is the placement?

  • A minimum of 315 hours, approximately 45 days, in your chosen industry.

Do I get help finding a placement?

  • Yes! Our Employer Engagement Manager supports you at every stage, from CV preparation to securing a placement.

Do I get paid for the placement?

  • T Level placements are usually unpaid, though support for travel or meals may be available depending on your employer.

What can I do after a T Level?

  • Progress to university (T Levels carry UCAS points)

  • Undertake a higher or degree-level apprenticeship

  • Enter skilled employment in your chosen industry

Employers: Want to Support the Next Generation?

If you are an employer interested in hosting one of our T-Level Students for Work Experience please click here

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Whether you’re a future engineer, software developer, scientist, or healthcare professional — UTCN’s T Levels give you the tools, experience, and confidence to succeed.

Build your future the technical way. Start with a T Level at UTCN.