T Levels at UTCN: Myths Busted & Your Questions Answered

So, What Exactly Are T Levels?

Let’s break it down simply.

T Levels are a new, high-quality qualification designed to give students the skills, knowledge, and experience they need to thrive in a technical career. If you’re weighing up your options after GCSEs and want a path that combines academic study with real-world experience, T Levels might just be the perfect fit.

At UTCN, our T Level courses are ideal for students who want to move beyond the classroom and get hands-on in the industries that shape our future — engineering, digital, construction, health and more.

Think of T Levels as the best of both worlds:

  • Equivalent to three A Levels

  • 80% of your time spent in the classroom learning the core knowledge for your subject

  • 20% spent in a real industry placement — a minimum of 45 days with an employer, applying what you’ve learned to real-world problems

This isn’t just theory — this is 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:

Each course is designed with input from local and national employers, ensuring what you learn is relevant, up-to-date, and career-focused.

T Level Myths: Let’s Set the Record Straight

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

✅ Truth: T Levels are a full Level 3 qualification — just like A Levels. They’re designed to prepare you for a specific sector, combining academic content with hands-on learning. They carry UCAS points and are accepted by universities across the UK, including many 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. They require academic ability and a strong work ethic, especially with the added responsibility of a placement. They’re not “easier” — they’re just different. Perfect for those who enjoy applied learning and want a clear route into work or higher study.

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

✅ Truth: Not at UTCN. We work with employers to ensure every placement is meaningful, skill-building, and relevant to your career goals. You’ll be working on real tasks, with real responsibilities — not standing by the printer.

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

✅ Truth: Our dedicated Employer Engagement Manager supports every T Level student from day one. We help match you with local employers, prepare you for interviews, and make sure you get the support you need to succeed. We even offer mock interviews and CV writing workshops to help you feel confident and ready.

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

Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers.

How long is the placement?
A minimum of 315 hours, or around 45 days, with an employer in your sector.

Do I get help finding a placement?
Yes! Our Employer Engagement Manager will support you through every step — from preparing your CV to securing a suitable placement that meets your interests and goals.

Do I get paid for the placement?
T Level placements are not usually paid, but you may receive support with travel or meals depending on your employer and circumstances.

What can I do after a T Level?
You can go on to:

  • A university course (T Levels carry full UCAS points)

  • A higher or degree-level apprenticeship

  • 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.