Podcasts, Insights and Resources

Episode One:

This episode explores the importance of having strategic intent behind successful T Level and T Level Transition Programme launch and development. Mark Hughes speaks to Kirstie Kohling, Assistant Principal for Quality and Curriculum, Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College and Ashley Grute, Assistant Principal Vocational Curriculum, HSDC. They discuss how they have decided which T Levels and occupational specialisms to deliver, as well as the rationale behind which T Level Transition Programmes they offer.

Episode Two:

This episode covers what to consider when designing and delivering effective and successful and T Level programmes. Mark Hughes speaks to Andrew Bristow, Director of Built Environment, Thomas Telford UTC and Neil Johnson, Assistant Principal Young People, Barnsley College. They discuss the various roles that employers play in T Level design and delivery, as well as how they induct students and what they do to prepare them for industry placements.

Episode Three:

In this episode Mark Hughes talks to Guy Marshall, Curriculum Lead at Ashton Sixth Form College and Robert Ind, Head of School at Cranford Community College about how to design and deliver effective and successful T Level Transition programmes. They talk about how they ensure their students are T Level ready through assessment methods, contextualisation of English and maths and developing work skills.

Episode Four:

In this episode Mark Hughes talks to Christine Kenyon, Deputy Principal for FE, The Manchester College and Phil McPherson, Assistant Principal, City of Stoke-On-Trent Sixth Form College. They talk about how their organisational approach to raising the profile of T Levels and T Level transition programmes and strategies they’ve used to recruit students onto these courses.

Episode Five:

In this episode Mark Hughes talks to Roz Hicks, Head of Media, Business and Digital Industries at City College Norwich and Mark Taylor, Head of School, Construction, Engineering, Science, Automotive & Advanced Manufacturing at Preston College. They explore progression strategies and approaches that they have used to support students to successfully progress from T Level Transition Programmes to T Level Pathways and also from T Levels to higher education, apprenticeships and employment.

In this episode, we explore the crucial role of entry grades in unlocking student potential across T Level programmes from both a school and General Further Education (GFE) perspective. Our guests highlight the importance of entry grades in effective marketing and recruitment, demonstrating how the right criteria attracts suitable students and supports positive outcomes. They reflect on changes to entry grade requirements since T Levels launched, emphasising continuous review to align with student needs and market trends. Looking ahead, they discuss the impact of upcoming Post-16 reforms on entry criteria and the need for ongoing adjustments to recruit the right students for the right T Levels and occupational specialisms, offering advice for other providers.

Episode Four:

In this episode, it was great to explore the potential benefits for large employers in supporting and promoting T Level provision.

It’s worth noting that if you are a small and medium-sized enterprise (SME), there is another podcast episode that explores why they got involved and the potential benefits to an SME.

From speaking to Ray and John one of the key benefits for a large employer is the ability to increase the talent pipeline coming through which can ultimately support future recruitment. For a large regional or national employer, you can effectively develop your own work force that may help to keep talent local.

If after this podcast episode you are interested in finding out more, as Ray suggested, there is a range of support mechanisms available online including practical tools and guidance, webinars, events and 1:1 support for employers. There is also support with regards to searching for local providers and connecting with a school or college so you can find out more about T Levels and T Level Foundation Year pathways.

Episode Five:

In this episode, it was great to explore the potential benefits for small and medium-sized enterprises (SME’s) in supporting and promoting T Level provision.

From speaking to Tara and James we heard that as an employer, there are many different ways that you can get involved to support providers with T Levels and T Level Foundation Years. Examples included guest talks, supporting the development of employability skills and work readiness activities. These may lead onto hosting industry placements or work experience activities for students.

If after this podcast episode you are interested in finding out more, there is a range of online support for employers including practical tools and guidance, webinars, events and 1:1 advice. There is also support with regards to searching for local providers and connecting with a local school or college so you can find out more about T Levels and T Level Foundation Year pathways. It’s worth noting that if you are a large employer, there is another podcast episode that examines why they got involved and the potential benefits to a larger employer.

Episode Six:

In this episode, we explore how Runshaw College enriches the T Level learner journey. Our guests discuss the strategies and approaches taken to enhance the student experience and why they are so passionate about making the course engaging and practical. Stuart and Marika share their insights into why they invest time and resources into enriching T Level students’ experiences. They explain their methods and how these initiatives bring the curriculum to life. Following this, students Todd and Mia provide their perspectives on what excites them about the T Level programme and how the enrichment activities have enhanced their learning journey.

Episode Seven:

In this episode, we explore how The Sheffield College developed and sustained effective employer relationships to support T Level programmes. Our guests discuss the establishment of their Employer Academies, the role of the Chamber of Commerce in connecting with over 900 employers and offer advice on developing similar relationships. We highlight why employer engagement is vital for T Levels, covering curriculum design, equipment advice, and staff continuous professional development, with examples like masterclasses and Open Day participation. Success stories include employability programmes and the use of virtual reality for Industry Placements.

Looking ahead, new initiatives like international industry placements offer students valuable experiences, with examples such as trips to Fiji and Bali. Finally, our guests provide tips for new T Level providers on developing strong employer and industry links.

Episode Eight:

In this episode, we explore the strategies schools use to develop effective employer relationships to support T Level programmes. This discussion sets the stage for Episode 5, which focuses on General Further Education (GFE) providers.

Our guests share their experiences in developing employer engagement from the start of their T Level journeys, discussing whether these links were pre-existing or needed to be developed and highlighting the resources, such as staffing, that facilitated this process. Nicola Weekly and Craig Sams explain their approaches, emphasising that even small teams can succeed. They share strategies for maintaining ongoing engagement, stressing the importance of consistent communication and mutual benefits. The discussion covers why employer engagement is crucial for T Levels, impacting curriculum design, delivery, and providing technical support. Both guests share metrics and real-life examples of successful partnerships, resulting in positive student outcomes and programme enhancements. Finally, they offer practical advice for new T Level providers on building and sustaining productive industry links. Tune in for valuable insights and advice on fostering effective employer relationships to support T Level programmes.

Episode Nine:

Join us for an insightful episode of the T Level and T Level Foundation Year Podcast, where host Mark Hughes delves into the strategic intent behind the launch of T Level programmes by leading providers. This episode features Exeter College and The Sheffield College as they share their different approaches to implementing T Levels, evolving their offerings and ensuring staff are equipped with industry knowledge and technical skills. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the initial strategic intent, staff development, recruitment processes, lessons learned, and key advice for new providers embarking on their T Level journey. Don’t miss this comprehensive guide to successful T Level implementation and growth.

Episode Ten:

Join us for the latest episode of the T Level and T Level Foundation Year Podcast, where host Mark Hughes explores how York College has effectively raised awareness and supported recruitment onto T Level pathways with Ken Merry. Discover the initial marketing strategies used, how these approaches have evolved, and new ideas for future campaigns. Learn about the role of employers, universities, and current students in promoting T Levels, and gain insights into the impact of these strategies on recruitment and programme growth. Finally, hear invaluable advice for new providers embarking on their T Level journey. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to successful T Level recruitment and marketing.

Episode Eleven:

Host Mark Hughes delves into how schools and providers have effectively raised awareness of T Level qualifications to boost recruitment. This episode features insights from Rachel Mann and Ruth Coyle. We explore initial marketing strategies, the evolution of recruitment approaches, and the involvement of employers, universities, and students in promoting T Levels. Tune in to hear valuable advice on attracting future talent and adapting marketing efforts to ensure successful enrolment and programme growth.

Episode Twelve:

Join us for an insightful episode of the T Level and T Level Foundation Year Podcast, where host Mark Hughes engages with The Trafford College to uncover the strategic considerations behind their successful launch of T Levels and T Level Foundation Year pathways. This episode delves into the internal and external factors that were crucial in raising awareness and implementing these programmes. Learn how Trafford College managed to interweave these considerations effectively and discover valuable lessons, tips, and strategies that new providers can use to navigate their own T Level journeys. Don’t miss this comprehensive guide to launching and sustaining T Level programmes.