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T-Level Courses

T-Levels at Newman

T-Levels are a recent addition to post-16 education in England, first introduced in 2020. These two-year qualifications are developed in partnership with employers and carry the same value as three A-Levels. Their purpose is to prepare young people with the knowledge and practical skills they need for future careers.

At Cardinal Newman, we’re one of the leading T-Level colleges in Lancashire. Students can choose from a range of T-Level specialisms, each designed to develop the expertise required in today’s workplaces.

What are T-Levels?

T-Levels are a qualification option for students after GCSEs, combining classroom study with industry experience. Each course runs over two years, is equivalent to three A-Levels and provides a balanced approach to learning.

As part of the programme, students complete an extended industry placement, giving them valuable insight into their chosen sector. This mix of academic and practical learning helps prepare students for employment, higher education, or advanced apprenticeships.

How are T-Levels structured?

T-Levels are designed to give students a balance of classroom study and practical experience. The course is split into two main parts:

  • Classroom learning (around 80%) – covering the core knowledge and skills for the chosen subject area.
  • Industry placement (around 20%) – a minimum of 45 days working with a relevant employer.

The industry placement is a central feature of the T-Level programme. It allows students to put what they’ve learned into practice, build confidence in a professional setting and gain valuable insight into future career paths.

What T-Level subjects are there?

As of 2024, more than 20 T-Level subjects are available across a wide range of sectors, from science and health to engineering and agriculture.

At Cardinal Newman College, students can choose from a range of T-Level courses, including:

  • Digital: Cyber Security
  • Education and Early Years
  • Health
  • Management and Administration
  • Science

What qualifications do I need to take T-Levels?

Whilst requirements can vary depending on the course, students will usually need at least two GCSEs at grade 5 and three GCSEs at grade 4, including a grade 4 or above in both Maths and English Language. For full details, please refer to our Entry Criteria for individual courses.

How are T-Levels graded?

When students complete a T-Level, they receive an overall grade of pass, merit, distinction, or distinction*. This grade reflects their achievement across all parts of the course.

Students are also awarded a nationally recognised certificate. This outlines the results of their T-Level, confirms the completion of the industry placement and shows that they have met the required standard in Maths and English.

What are the benefits of taking T-Levels?

Studying a T-Level offers students a range of benefits, including:

  • A high-quality industry placement that strengthens UCAS applications
  • Opportunities to build connections and secure references for future careers
  • Development of strong technical knowledge and practical skills
  • Insight into a chosen industry to support career choices
  • Individual support and guidance throughout the programme

What are my options after T-Levels?

Completing a T-Level opens up several future pathways. Students can:

  • Progress to university or other higher education routes
  • Begin a higher or degree-level apprenticeship
  • Enter the workforce directly with recognised skills
  • Continue working with their industry placement employer, where opportunities are available

This flexibility makes T-Levels a strong option for students who want both academic study and practical industry experience.

Why choose Cardinal Newman College?

Cardinal Newman College is one of the highest-performing sixth form colleges in the country, making it a leading choice for T-Levels in Lancashire. Our Ofsted inspection in February 2023 once again rated us as ‘Outstanding’, highlighting our commitment to academic excellence and student success.

By choosing Cardinal Newman College, you benefit from:

  • A reputation for outstanding teaching and support
  • Excellent results and progression opportunities
  • Strong links with employers for industry placements
  • A welcoming and supportive community

For more information about T-Levels in Preston, get in touch with us today. Our team is here to answer your questions and guide you through the next steps.