Development of the Government’s new T Level Technical Qualification in craft and design is now under way, with delivery commencing across England in 2023.
The contract to develop the Technical Qualification that will underpin the T Level was awarded to NCFE by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (the Institute) in October 2021. NCFE is an educational charity and leader in vocational and technical learning, with over 170 years of education experience.
What are T Levels?
T Levels are a new, high-quality, work-focused alternative to A Levels for students aged 16-18. These transformative new qualifications will play a fundamental role in equipping the craft and design sector with the skilled workforce it needs, through developing and nurturing future talent.
Once completed, a T Level will support progression on to a higher- or degree-level apprenticeship, higher-level technical study (including university), or directly into skilled work.
How are they structured?
T Levels are 80% classroom based and 20% on-the-job experience. The industry placement portion allows students the opportunity to gain valuable work experience and practical skills in a real-world, business setting.
What future careers will the T Level support?
The core content of the T Level will help students to develop an understanding of a broad range of issues relevant to the sector. Students can also focus on a particular area of specialism within the field including furniture making, textiles and fashion making, ceramic making, and jewellery making.
Ultimately, the T Level will support progression into a number of professions in the sector including furnituremaker, furniture designer, or furniture restorer.
How can you get involved?
NCFE needs input from employers and experienced professionals – like you – from across the furniture sector, to review, validate, or help to write qualification and assessment materials. NCFE is keen to hear from individuals working in all aspects of the furniture sector, including upholstery.
Your support will be vital in ensuring that these technical qualifications reflect the needs of the furniture sector in the future, setting young people on a route to success. NCFE is looking for a fresh outlook to develop the world-class content that will, in turn, develop world-class and industry-relevant skills.
To find out more and get involved, visit www.ncfe.org.uk/t-levels/support-t-levels. 'T Level’ 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.
