Trafford and Stockport College Group has been celebrating the benefits of T Level studies during a special awareness week.
It’s been 3 years since T Levels were introduced by the government in order to help bridge the gap between education and employment by combining classroom study with hands-on industry placements.
Our T Level Week was held to champion these technical qualifications and recognise the students, employers, and industry placement officers who make T Levels a pathway to success.
We hosted a webinar for pupils and their parents and carers, offering valuable insights into T Levels and their career benefits. The event showcased the qualifications’ potential through real-life success stories, demonstrating the powerful impact of technical education.
A spotlight was also placed on our industry placement officers, whose dedicated efforts help learners secure placements that prepare them for the workforce.
Their work highlights the unique structure of T Levels, where students spend 45 days in a real-world environment, gaining critical skills and experience.
We also celebrated the employers who play a vital role in the T Level journey, such as the GMI Construction Group.
GMI is a longstanding partner of Trafford and Stockport College and a shining example of the value of collaboration in technical education.
The business regularly takes on our students for their 45-day work placements and have recently gone to employ one of our students, Jamie Greatbanks.
James Bruce, Responsible Business Partner at GMI Construction, praised the partnership which has, to date, spanned three years. He said: “Working with the Trafford and Stockport College Group ensures trainees receive the right support both in the workplace and the classroom. The 45-day placement acts as a job interview, giving students like Jamie the chance to prove themselves.”
Jamie Greatbank, a Commercial Trainee at GMI Construction and former Stockport College T Level student, shared his inspiring journey: “I always knew I wanted to go into construction, and T Levels offered a fantastic opportunity to pursue higher-end roles like site/project management and quantity surveying. The work experience component is invaluable.
“After completing my course, I was offered summer work experience with GMI, which led to a degree apprenticeship. I’m now studying for a Bachelor’s Degree in Quantity Surveying at Salford University and working as a Commercial Trainee. I feel I’m in a great position and excited about the future.”
James added: “Jamie has been brilliant, and his hard work has been hugely beneficial to us. We definitely encourage other employers to take on T Level students. They could be your next apprentice or the next star in your firm. This collaboration is helping to bring more talent into the industry, which benefits everyone.”
James Scott, Principal and CEO of the Trafford and Stockport College Group, said: “T Level Week not only celebrates individual achievements, but also highlights the growing importance of technical qualifications in shaping the workforce of tomorrow.
“Through strong partnerships with employers like GMI Construction, we are empowering students to reach their potential while addressing industry skills gaps.”
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