T Levels are coming to the borough of Rochdale

T Level pathways in Digital, Construction, Education & Childcare and Health & Science

Hopwood Hall College has been confirmed as one of the nation’s approved providers of the new T Level qualifications.

Based in Rochdale and Middleton, the further education college has been specially selected to deliver T Level pathways in Digital, Construction, Education & Childcare and Health & Science in 2021.

The Department for Education is introducing a number of nationwide reforms to Technical Education in order to ensure that students leave their course with the meaningful skills, knowledge and expertise that employers want.

T Levels will differ from the traditional vocational, apprenticeship and A Level routes by combining classroom-based learning with substantial, valuable industry placements. The qualification will provide a high-quality alternative to traditional A Level routes.

Students will spend a minimum of 45 days with an employer in a role directly relevant to their college course, meaning that developing their practical and technical skills forms an integral part of gaining their qualifications.

For an employer, T Levels will provide them with the opportunity to work in partnership with the college to closely develop the skills and experience that their industry needs from employees.

Michael Monks, Careers Leader at Hopwood Hall College, said of the upcoming qualifications: “This is an exciting time for the borough of Rochdale and Hopwood Hall College as T Levels are a great opportunity for local businesses and the college to work even more closely together. We’re looking forward to building on our existing partnerships and developing new ones to nurture and develop the employability and technical skills of our amazing young people.

“Whilst T Levels are a brand-new qualification, we have already started working with local employers to raise awareness through our Shape the Future Skills of Rochdale event in November 2018. We would be thrilled to help guide and support local business, parents and young people to understand the benefit that these qualifications will provide and to move confidently towards the future.”