Think T Level placements are too complicated, costly or only for big companies? Think again.
At Wiltshire College & University Centre, we know that taking on a student for T Level placement might seem like a big commitment – especially if you’re a busy business. But in reality, it’s simpler, more flexible and more rewarding than many employers realise.
To help you separate fact from fiction, we’ve busted five of the most common myths we hear from businesses.
Myth 1: “We’d love to help, but we can’t afford it”
Fact: T Level placements are unpaid
There’s no salary to cover – students are gaining experience as part of their qualification. You provide a learning opportunity; they bring enthusiasm, fresh ideas and a genuine desire to contribute. It’s a win-win.
Myth 2: “It sounds complicated – we don’t have time”
Fact: We keep it simple
Our work placements team offers full support throughout the process. We’ll help match the right student to your business, guide you through any paperwork, and stay in touch during the placement. You focus on offering meaningful experience – we’ll handle the logistics.
Myth 3: “Aren’t under-18s tricky from an insurance point of view?”
Fact: Most students are covered by your existing Employer Liability Insurance.
There’s no need to buy a new policy – and we can help you check that you’re covered. We’ll also provide guidance on health and safety, safeguarding, and other practicalities so you feel confident and protected.
Myth 4: “We’re not a big company – we don’t have much to offer”
Fact: Every business has something to offer
You don’t need to be a national firm with a training department. Many of our most successful placement have been with sole traders, family businesses, farms, salons, shops, mechanics and local agencies. If you can offer real experience, you’re what we’re looking for.
Myth 5: We don’t have time to manage a student properly
Fact: Placements are flexible – and we’re here to help
The 45-day (315 hours) placement can be delivered in different formats to suit your needs – one day a week, blocks, or a mix. We’ll work with you to plan the best approach. And we’re just a phone call away throughout.
Taking on a T Level student isn’t just about offering a placement – it’s about investing in the future of your business, your industry and your community.
Whether you can offer one placement or several, your support makes a real difference. We’ll guide you through every step and make the process as smooth as possible.
If you’re ever said, “I wish young people left education with more experience,” this is your chance to be part of the solution.
Make your pledge today. Shape the future.
Hear from some of our employers
Wiltshire Council has been providing T Level placements for three years and finds is an invaluable way of showcasing its career opportunities.
“T Levels give employers an opportunity to showcase themselves, while giving young people the opportunity to see if they are the right fit for them.”
-Kathryn Partington, Apprenticeship and Early Careers Lead at Wiltshire Council.
Apsley Precision Engineering are reaping the rewards of T Level placements with students moving on to apprenticeships at the workplace following their T Level placements.
“We open our doors to T Level because we think they are great. They work for us because we can try before we buy, it’s another pair of hands and it’s free so why wouldn’t you?”
-Jon Paul-Sanders, Operations Manager at Apsley Precision Engineering.
