T Level Placement Guide: Unlocking Insights with T Level Placement Students at GMCA
In this article, two current T Level placement students at GMCA share their experiences. Kaja Davies and Veronika Torres are both undertaking a T Level placement so you can hear first hand what they think about it. Read on to see how Kaja and Veronika delve into their placements and share their experiences.
We’ll discuss our insights and encounters with both our placements and college. We also provide guidance on applying for a T-level. Readers will gain insights into what’s included on a T Level placement and the benefits and potential challenges you might face.
What is a T Level Placement?
So, let’s dive into T Levels. T Levels are a two year technical program that’s an alternative to A Levels, apprenticeships, or vocational qualifications. We are not just hitting the books; we are balancing classroom based learning with a 45 day industry placement. It’s our chance to apply what we are learning through hands-on, on-the-job experience.
What is it like on the T-level placement?
We spend around nine weeks on the T-level industry placement. This makes up 20% of our learning time while the remaining 80% is in the classroom. The whole T-level, including the industry stint, is crafted with input from employers. This ensures we finish with the right knowledge and skills for our chosen field. It’s a chance for us to apply classroom theory, try out different roles, understand a modern workplace, and build a network in our sectors – setting us up for our future careers.
What are the advantages and challenges of the T Level placement?
I blend classroom learning with an industry placement. It’s not just about book learning; I’m getting hands-on experience, discovering the real deal of a career while still hitting the books. Plus, when I ace it, I walk away with a nationally recognized qualification!
The work placement is great for me because it gives me first hand insights into how a business operates and helps me figure out ways to leverage that knowledge for my advancement. It also helps me understand how I can apply my skills in my future career path.
T Level challenges
You might also think that a T Level is too specialised for you at 16, especially if you haven’t decided on your career path.
But, we’d recommend thinking carefully about whether these challenges are things that would stop you doing a T Level. It might be that a T Level would actually be a great option for you, if you do a bit more research.
What are the do’s and don’ts of a T-level placement?
“Do”s
Revise as much as possible. Make sure to use all available resources like study materials, group discussions, and practice exams to understand everything thoroughly.
Pick the right placement. Go for what you genuinely like! Enjoying the subject speeds up learning.
Take opportunities. Make sure you follow up every job prospect that comes your way!
“Don’t”s
Be late. Use your time management skills to show up to the placement. This will make you look professional and help you adapt for the next job chances you get!
Mess around. As you would do in college, you need to behave correctly during the placement! make sure you are making the most out of the situation.
Misrepresent yourself. Within the placement you are in constant engament with high profiles stakeholders so you want to make a good impression. There is potential of future employment/opportunities at the end of your placement.
Our Experiences
1. What have you learned during your placement, and how do you think it will help you in your future?
From my T Level placement, I’ve gained valuable skills through supporting the Mayor’s office in organizing engagements. Additionally, working with different teams has enhanced my people skills, providing insights into various policy areas.
2. How well does what you learned in your placement match the skills you have learned during education?
The skills I’ve acquired during my T Level placement align seamlessly with my education in business management and administration. The technology skills gained while supporting the Mayor’s office complement my educational foundation. Overall, the experience enhances the practical application of my education and makes each day dynamic and interesting.
3. Do you think picking a T-level was the right choice for your career goals? why?
Yes!! Choosing a T Level was absolutely the right decision for my career aspirations. It has provided me with practical experience and skills that align with my goal of owning a business or securing an apprenticeship with my placement. The exposure to various projects during the T Level placement prepares me well for a potential management role.
4. What advice would you give to someone who is unsure about choosing a T Level course?
If you’re uncertain about pursuing a T Level, my advice would be to seriously consider it. T Levels offer a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and real-world insights that traditional qualifications might not provide. T Levels help prepare you for the real world, bridging the gap between education and practical application. It’s a valuable choice for those seeking a more immersive and comprehensive learning experience.
1. What have you learned during your placement, and how do you think it will help you in your future?
During my work placement, I not only learned digital skills but also improved my skills communication, networking, and adapting to different environments easier. I believe this experience will make me stand out in my future career, handling challenges that others my age may find difficult!
2. How well does what you learned in your placement match the skills you have learned during education?
Throughout my T Level course, I’ve gained a deeper understanding of technical aspects. Applying these technical skills in a real workplace has significantly boosted my confidence and provided me with a clearer vision of what my future career could entail.
3. Do you think picking a T-level was the right choice for your career goals? why?
Yes! I’ve learned how to grasp knowledge effectively and apply it practically. It’s taught me to be strategic in the classroom and has helped me understand how to grow in the digital industry. If given the opportunity, I would definitely choose a T Level again for the valuable and practical learning experience it offers.
4. What advice would you give to someone who is unsure of choosing a T Level course?
When faced with uncertainty about T Levels, conducting thorough research is paramount. Reflect on your preferred learning style and envision your future trajectory. T Levels, in my personal belief, present an excellent avenue for those inclined towards practical learning. If the conventional academic path, such as A Levels, seems challenging and you value hands-on experience, T Levels could offer a pragmatic and enriching alternative for your educational and professional journey.
