Down to a T

Exploring the new qualification that is perfect for those seeking a more handson approach after their GCSEs

- Kate Jones

First there were O-levels and A-levels. Now, there are T-levels. They might all be qualifications, but they’re all distinct – and nowhere is this distinction more evident than in the new T-level course, which selected English schools, colleges and providers began offering recently.

While A-levels and the International Baccalaureate are common post-16 academic qualifications in England, T-levels are vocational post-16 qualifications focused on practical subjects – ideal for those with a clear idea of the career they’d like to pursue. Equivalent to three A-levels, the two-year courses offer classroom-based learning along with an industry placement of a minimum of 315 hours (equivalent to roughly 45 days), with 80% of students’ time spent in the classroom and 20% spent on placement.