T Level Building Services for Engineering (Plumbing)

In your first year, you will build a solid foundation in core construction and engineering principles, ensuring you have a strong understanding of how plumbing fits into the bigger picture. In the second year, your studies will focus on the occupational specialism in plumbing, allowing you to dive deeper into your chosen field. You will explore the following key areas:

• Health and safety regulations in construction
• Understanding construction science and design
• Building technology and sustainability practices
• Environmental and building regulations
• Principles of building services engineering
• Plumbing system installation and maintenance
• Hot and cold water systems
• Sanitation systems
• Heating systems and energy efficiency
• Understanding technical drawings and plans
• Testing and commissioning of plumbing systems

T Levels are a relatively new qualification in England, introduced in 2020 for students aged 16 to 19. Equivalent to three A Levels, each T Level course lasts two years and combines 80% classroom learning with 20% practical, on-the-job experience through an industry placement lasting at least 315 hours (about 45 days). These vocational qualifications are designed in collaboration with employers to ensure the curriculum meets industry needs, providing students with the skills required for specific sectors. Assessment is through exams, coursework, and performance during the industry placement. T Levels are recognised by many universities and higher education institutions as equivalent to A Levels, offering a practical alternative to traditional academic routes.

T Levels are for school leavers, you'll need to be aged 16 - 18 at the start of your programme with a Level 2 qualification from a construction or trade pathway along with maths and English grade 4 and above.

To excel in this programme, it will help if you are practical, enjoy problem-solving, and have a keen eye for detail. An interest in how systems work and a willingness to work with your hands are also essential.

T Level in Building Services Engineering for Construction

Completing this T Level opens the door to several exciting opportunities. You could move straight into a plumbing apprenticeship, pursue further study at university in building services engineering, or start a career as a plumbing technician.

There are multiple parts to any T-Level qualification, the core component, the industry placement, and a few other requirements. Your assessment will be a mix of practical tasks, projects, and exams, allowing you to demonstrate both your technical knowledge and your ability to apply it on the job. The Employer Set Project (ESP) is designed to assess the knowledge and skills you have gained during the 'Core' element of your course. Developed in collaboration with industry employers, the ESP involves a series of tasks that reflect real-world scenarios and challenges relevant to the specific sector. Your occupational specialism will be assessed through a Practical Summative Assessment (PSA). The PSA is externally set and marked, focusing on the practical application of the skills and knowledge gained during the course, allowing you to demonstrate your competence in your chosen occupational specialism. The grades for the core are given in A*-E, similarly to A-Levels, while the occupational specialism is graded as pass, merit, or distinction, similarly to BTECs. These grades are then combined to give an overall grade.

Expect to spend 3 - 5 hours per week reviewing technical concepts covered in class and completing assignments that build on your practical and theoretical learning. This may include case studies, research on new technologies, and hands-on projects to apply your skills.

Industry placements are a fundamental part of T Levels, designed to give you practical experience in your chosen field. Each placement lasts a minimum of 315 hours, or roughly 45 days, spending 80% of your course in the classroom and 20% on placement. These placements are organised with employers who provide meaningful tasks and projects that reflect the normal requirements of the industry. The goal is for you to develop up-to-date knowledge and skills relevant to your T Level, enhancing your employability and readiness for the workplace.

You may be required to purchase work wear such safety boots and trousers. Prices can be discussed prior to enrolment. All students are asked to contribute £15 towards the College Subscription Fund. You may also be offered the opportunity to visit location sites, exhibitions and shows. These may require you to pay entrance fees and coach costs. If you would benefit from purchasing textbooks or other subject-specific resources, the details of this will be discussed prior to enrolment.