T Levels at UTC Portsmouth

T Levels are a new, high-quality technical qualification for students aged 16–19, combining classroom learning with real-world experience through an industry placement. Employers play a vital role in shaping and delivering these qualifications at UTC Portsmouth.


What are T Levels?

T Levels are two-year qualifications developed in collaboration with employers and industry experts. They are equivalent to three A Levels and provide a blend of academic study and hands-on experience. Each T Level includes a substantial industry placement, lasting at least 45 days, allowing students to apply their knowledge in a real work environment.

We currently deliver T Levels in:

  • Engineering & Manufacturing

  • Digital Production, Design and Development


How Do Employers Get Involved?

Employers are at the heart of T Levels. By working with UTC Portsmouth, you can help develop the next generation of skilled professionals while benefiting from new talent and ideas within your organisation.

Employers support our T Level students through:

  • Hosting 45-day industry placements

  • Providing live projects or challenges for students

  • Delivering talks, workshops, or mentoring sessions

  • Advising on curriculum design and industry relevance

UTC Portsmouth ensures full support throughout the process, from matching suitable students to guiding safeguarding and logistics.


Why Partner With Us?

Working with UTC Portsmouth on T Level placements allows your organisation to make a real impact while gaining genuine business benefits.

By becoming an Industry Placement, you can:

  • Shape the future workforce – inspire and develop young people with the skills, attitude and ambition your industry needs.

  • Access emerging talent early – connect with motivated students who could become your future apprentices or employees.

  • Bring in fresh ideas and perspectives – students contribute creativity, digital confidence and new approaches to problem-solving.

  • Strengthen community and industry links – demonstrate your organisation’s commitment to developing local skills and supporting education in Portsmouth and the wider Solent region.

  • Enhance your reputation – gain recognition as a valued UTC Portsmouth partner helping to deliver the next generation of technical professionals.


Who to Contact

For all T Level employer related enquiries, please contact:

Sean Archibald - T Level Coordinator
enquiries@utcportsmouth.org
02393 120 200

Frequently Asked Questions

  • No. T Level placements are an assessed part of each student’s qualification, so payment isn’t required. Some employers choose to contribute towards travel or lunch expenses, but that’s entirely optional.

  • Each placement totals 315 hours (around 45 days) and is delivered in three structured blocks over two years:

    • Year 12: November (5 days) and June/July (20 days)

    • Year 13: January (20 days)

    This approach ensures students gain sustained, meaningful experience while minimising disruption to employers’ operations.

  • Our Employer Engagement Team provides full support, from matching students to preparing placement paperwork, safeguarding, and maintaining contact throughout the experience.

  • We use Grofar, a dedicated online platform that securely manages all placement details, communications, and progress tracking. It allows employers, students, and UTC staff to stay organised and connected throughout the process.

  • Students undertake meaningful, supervised work relevant to their T Level specialism, such as engineering design and digital development.

  • Yes. Many employers use T Level placements to identify and recruit future apprentices or employees. It’s an excellent way to build long-term relationships with talented young people in your sector.