2 mins
T LEVELS EXPLAINED
T Level industry placements will shape the talent of tomorrow and address the entry-level skills shortage. NCFE & VTCT explain how
Development of the Government’s new T Level Technical Qualification in Hair, Beauty and Aesthetics is now underway with delivery to commence across England in 2023. The contract for this T Level was awarded to NCFE, who will work alongside its specialist partner VTCT, by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (the Institute) in October 2021.
T Levels are high-quality, work-focused alternatives to A Levels for students aged 16–18. These new flagship Level 3 technical programmes span two years and will equip students with the skills, knowledge and behaviours they need to progress into skilled employment. One of the four key components that make up aT Level is the industry placement.
What is the industry placement?
The industry placement allows a student the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in a real-world, business setting. These placements offer all students access to a meaningful experience and practical skills that can’t be gained in the classroom.
The duration of the work placement is a minimum of 315 hours (with no upper limit of time). This will be during normal industry working hours, even if it is outside the academic timetable, thus, further promoting the real-life work environment for students.
Employers throughout the country are encouraged to get involved with T Levels. Lorraine Nordmann, beauty president of the Association of Hairdressers and Therapists (AHT) explains: “T Levels, developed in collaboration with industry, support aspiration and focus on preparing students for work while developing the technical skills and knowledge sought by industry.
A robust work experience is central to the qualification.”
Benefits of industry placements
For employers, the industry placement is a valuable solution to addressing the entry-level skills shortage. The placements also help to improve innovation and increase an organisation’s productivity, as students bring a fresh pair of eyes and new ideas.
How can you get involved?
Even though industry placements won’t start for a couple of years for the hair and beauty sectors, you can still be involved now. VTCT is looking for experienced professionals to contribute their knowledge (for example, through reviewing content) as part of its T Level development panels. Register your interest in getting involved at vtct.org.uk/tlevels.
Joan Scott, chief executive and chair of HABIA, has been involved with the T Level development panels and says: “Our team at HABIA are delighted to be providing expertise to support the development of the T Level. We want to champion the next generation of professionals in our industries.
“It’s so important to nurture and develop skills and talent, as well as provide a quality progression route into the sector. These qualifications – with our help and support – will do just that. We invite others to share their expertise in support of the T Level development.”
‘T L evel’ is a registered trademark of the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education. The T Level Technical Qualification is a qualification approved and managed by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education.