Welcome to the first blog for NEON’s working group for Supporting Access, Success and Progression for Vocational Learners.
This working group focuses on sharing ideas and existing practice around work supporting pathways into and through HE for vocational learners with a specific focus on T-Levels.
The group is chaired by a team of four. Three from HEI’s; Harper Adams (Rachel), Keele (Andy) and BNU (Arinola) and one from the worlds leading education provider, Pearson (Ria)
2025 sees this working group taking on a slight format change for members, so that information can be disseminated in different forms. As part of this working group, you will receive 10 blog posts throughout a 12-month period, all focussing on a different topic around vocational learning. The chairs will mostly be writing these blogs themselves, but we will be calling on professionals (ie YOU) to help too.
We will also meet online termly to discuss the most recent blog post features and to have a safe space for open questions, guest speakers and dialogue around this topic.
Our first meeting is 13th May at 12:00 – 13:00 and you can book here.
So first…..
What Are T Levels? A New Pathway to Career Success
You’ve already come across the term T Levels. But what exactly are they? How do they compare to A Levels or apprenticeships? And most importantly — what type of student are they right for?
Let’s break it down.
What Are T Levels?
T Levels (short for Technical Levels) are a relatively new qualification in England designed for students aged 16 to 19. They were introduced in 2020 as part of the government’s efforts to change technical education. Think of them as career-focused A Levels.
T Levels combine classroom learning with an industry placement, giving students both the knowledge and practical experience to jump straight into the workforce or continue on to university.
Each T Level course is equivalent to three A Levels and takes two years to complete.
How Do T Levels Work?
A typical T Level course is split into:
- 80% classroom-based learning – covering core theory, concepts, and skills related to the chosen industry.
- 20% industry placement – around 45 days working with an employer to build hands-on experience.
This mix ensures that students know not just what to do but also how to do it in a real-world setting.
Subjects You Can Currently Study
T Levels are available in a growing number of sectors, including:
- Digital (e.g., Digital Production, Design and Development)
- Health and Science
- Construction
- Education and Childcare
- Engineering and Manufacturing
- Legal, Finance and Accounting
- Agriculture, Environmental and Animal Care (rolling out gradually)
As more industries join the T Level framework, the range of career paths continues to expand.
Who Are T Levels For?
T Levels are ideal for students who:
Prefer practical learning but still want a classroom environment
Are focused on a specific career path
Want a direct route into employment, an apprenticeship, or university
They’re also great for those who want the best of both worlds — a structured qualification and valuable work experience.
How Do T Levels Compare?
| Qualification | Focus | Duration | Work Placement | University Progression |
| A Levels | Academic | 2 years | No | Yes |
| T Levels | Technical & vocational | 2 years | Yes (45 days) | Yes |
| Apprenticeships | On-the-job training | Varies | Full-time | Sometimes |
T Levels are best viewed as sitting between A Levels and apprenticeships. They provide a clear, structured route for students who want to develop real skills with real employers, without going straight into full-time work.
What Can You Do After T Levels?
After completing a T Level, students can:
Go to university – T Levels carry UCAS points like A Levels do
Start a higher-level apprenticeship
Move straight into employment in their chosen field
Universities and employers are increasingly recognizing the value of T Levels, making them a solid choice for long-term success.