WILTSHIRE College & University Centre is joining colleges across the country to celebrate T Levels Week from 19–23 October 2026, as student numbers reach a new high.
The College has welcomed more than 600 T Level students this academic year, representing a 50% increase on the previous year and reflecting the growing popularity of the qualification among young people.
T Levels are two-year qualifications for 16–19-year-olds, equivalent in size to three A Levels. Combining classroom learning with a minimum of 45 days (315 hours) of industry placement, they give students the opportunity to develop practical skills, gain valuable workplace experience and explore careers in their chosen industry.
The College offers T Levels across a range of subjects, including Agriculture, Animal Care, Business, Computing, Education, Engineering, Health and Social Care and Land-based Engineering.
A week of celebrating T Levels
Throughout T Levels Week, the College will be sharing student stories, celebrating achievements and recognising the employers who help bring learning to life through industry placements.
Each day will focus on a different theme:
- Motivation Monday: Exploring T Levels and the opportunities they offer young people.
- Trailblazer Tuesday: Recognising the employers and organisations supporting T Level students.
- Workplace Wednesday: Showcasing students putting their skills into practice during industry placements.
- Thriving Thursday: Celebrating student achievements and success stories.
- Future Friday: Looking ahead to future opportunities and encouraging more businesses to get involved.
Learning beyond the classroom
A key part of every T Level is the industry placement, giving students the opportunity to experience working life first-hand, learn from industry professionals and develop skills that will support their future careers.
For many, placements also help build confidence, develop professional relationships and open doors to opportunities they may not have previously considered.
Former T Level Business student Jalem Scott, who completed his industry placement with Wiltshire FA, shared how the experience helped him develop.
“The placement has given us an opportunity to work in a real business environment so you take a lot from it.
“I’ve gained a lot of transferable skills as well, and I feel like I’ve grown.”
Former T Level Engineering student Lucy Harden is another example of how industry placements can open doors to future careers.
After completing her studies at the College, Lucy secured an apprenticeship with AJM Engineering in Corsham, where she had previously undertaken her industry placement.
Lucy, who was also recently named Engineering Student of the Year at the College’s annual Student Awards, said:
“It’s amazing what you can do after, you know, you get that bit of education. It’s great.”
Now working towards her engineering qualification through a three-year apprenticeship, Lucy is gaining hands-on experience in programming and operating machinery, building on the skills she developed during her time at College.
These partnerships not only help young people prepare for employment but also give businesses the opportunity to develop future talent and connect with the next generation of skilled professionals.
Supporting the next generation
As T Levels continue to grow, the College is keen to raise awareness of the opportunities they offer young people considering their options after GCSEs.
With progression routes into higher education, apprenticeships and employment, T Levels provide a practical pathway for students looking to develop both academic knowledge and industry experience.
T Levels Week is an opportunity to showcase these benefits, celebrate the achievements of current students and recognise the employers helping to shape their futures.
Employers: Get involved!
The College is also calling on more local businesses to support young people through THE BIG Placement Pledge, running until 31 October 2026.
The campaign encourages employers to pledge opportunities for students to gain valuable insight into the workplace, whether through industry placements, workplace visits or industry talks.
By getting involved, businesses can help young people develop their skills, explore career opportunities and take their first steps into the world of work.
