In 2020, Strode College became one of the first providers across the country to offer the brand new T Level. Two years on, Strode College is celebrating the first cohort of T Level students to complete their course

T Levels are 16 to 19 qualifications, broadly equivalent in size to three A Levels that focus on technical and vocational skills. They can help students into skilled employment, higher study or apprenticeships.

Freddie Lane is one of the first ever students to complete a T Level. Freddie studied a T Level in Digital Production, Design and Development and completed his placement at Somerton Computing. After graduating, Freddie is planning to study Games Technology at UWE (University of the West of England) in Bristol.

 Freddie said, "I loved the industry placement most about the course, it was such fun and has been extremely impactful on my development, teaching me about the industry I am interested in whilst still being manageable alongside my college work and personal life. I also preferred the classroom dynamic in my course to any other courses I've studied, as the relationship between teacher and student is a lot different to school, with teachers focusing on helping students develop in the fields they want to, allowing students to grow in their field of interest."

David Williams of Somerton Computing said, "Freddie worked with Somerton Computing on an industry placement for 4 months. His role included diagnosing, repairing and testing computers and laptops that come into the workshop. Freddie showed a great aptitude for his job and was constantly developing. He was able to fix the vast majority of repairs on his own in a timely and efficient manner. Freddie is confident, polite and a great asset to the team."

Olivia Penny from Bath, formally a pupil at Bruton School for Girls studied a T Level in Education and Childcare at Strode College. Olivia is going on to study a BA (Hons) in Early Years Development and Learning at Norland College. Olivia says, "I particularly enjoyed the support I received from my teachers. They really do go beyond to make sure you are achieving your full potential with your work and help shape you into being the best version of yourself. The extra support given here at college is the best and everyone is so friendly. The facilities are good, which is so important when doing the T Level as it is more practical."

T Levels are now available to study in a wide range of subjects, with Strode College offering courses in

·        Business, Management & Administration (T Level - Level 3)

·        Digital Advance (Transition to T Level)

·        Digital Data Management (Digital Business Services, T Level - Level 3)

·        Digital Production, Design and Development (T Level - Level 3)

·        Education and Childcare (T Level - Level 3)

·        Hardware & Technical Support (T Level - Level 3)

·        Health & Science (Transition to T Level)

·        Health (T Level- Level 3)

·        Science (T Level - Level 3)

These pioneering new qualifications are designed in collaboration with leading employers to provide the skills that businesses across the region need. The subject areas on offer reflect some of the top business growth areas such as digital skills, health and social care and construction.

T Levels are unique as they combine classroom study with industry placements so young people gain valuable work experience in their chosen sector. Many local businesses including Owen Barry Ltd based in Street, and Somerton Computing based in Somerton, are embracing T Levels as a great way to bring in new ideas and the latest skills, and a new way to find, nurture and secure young talent.

The 'Get the Jump' content hub on the National Careers Service website has, in one place, all the education and training choices available to young people who are taking their next step, including further information on T Levels. Whether you know what you want to do yet or not, knowing your education, training and work choices is a great place to start. Search Get the Jump to find out more.