Preparing for the workplace with a T Level in Education and Childcare

As we come towards the end of the first teaching year of the T Level in Education and Childcare, we’re reflecting on the past few months to find out how learners have found the experience so far.

T Level qualifications blend work experience with formal qualifications, in a range of subjects – including Education and Childcare, as well as Health and Science, and Digital pathways launching in September. We spoke to Lexie, who is studying a T Level in Education and Childcare at Exeter College, about her experience.

Lexie has always been interested in a career working with young children. When she first considered post-16 options, she decided to apply for a T Level instead of an A Level, due to the combination of work experience and qualifications that she would receive.

The area which she feels she has benefited most from is the presentations she has had to deliver as part of her course. She said: “Delivering presentations in class have been a big achievement for me as I feel they have really helped to develop my public speaking and presentation skills, which will be helpful to me when going into the workplace.”

Support during the pandemic

Whilst Lexie’s course does include industry placements, helping her to gain valuable experience and insight in the workplace, these placements are currently on hold due to the pandemic. However, alterations have been made and students are currently studying a ‘Preparing for Placement’ module to prepare for when they arrive in placement, giving them the knowledge and skills to become good practitioners.

When Lexie does begin her placements, she will be working with children aged 0-8 years. These placements will support and build on the knowledge and content that she is currently learning through her T Level qualification.

Setting students up for success

Following the completion of the Education and Childcare T Level, Lexie intends to a study a degree in education at university, allowing her to receive a QTS (Qualified Teacher Status), to become a fully trained teacher.

“I have found the college environment to be very supportive, there is always someone around to help if needed, especially in the first few weeks when getting used to the new environment. In addition, having a tutor means you have someone to go to who will always be more than happy to help.

“I would recommend studying a T Level and I have really enjoyed my first few months! The teaching on my T Level course has been fantastic so far. My teachers are extremely knowledgeable and always happy to help with any questions I have.”

Revolutionising technical education

T Levels are a high-quality, work-focussed alternative to A levels for young people once they’ve completed their GCSEs. These new two-year courses are designed with employers to intimately reflect the needs of the sectors and occupations they’re designed to serve.

T Levels will equip young people with the knowledge, skills and behaviours they need to progress into work or higher-level study.

To find out more about T Levels visit ncfe.org.uk/t-levels