T Level Digital Support Services

In your first year, you'll dive into the core elements of digital technology, gaining a solid understanding of the fundamentals that every tech professional needs. This will build your confidence and give you a broad base of knowledge, ready for more specialised learning. Some of the topics you will cover in Year 1 include:

• An introduction to digital environments and networks
• Cybersecurity principles and risk management
• Programming and software development basics
• The role of digital support in business operations
• Ethical and legal issues in digital services

In your second year, you'll focus on your occupational specialism, gaining practical experience in Digital Support Services. Here, you will work on real-world challenges and master the skills employers are looking for. This could include:

• Providing technical support for systems, networks, and hardware
• Troubleshooting and resolving issues for end-users
• Monitoring and maintaining IT infrastructure
• Installing and configuring digital 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.

Five GSCE passes at grade 4/C or above, preferably to include Maths and English or an equivalent vocational qualification at merit grade, and Functional Skills Maths and English, preferably at Level 2.

Students who have not yet achieved grade 4/C in GCSE Maths and English, will study Functional Skills or GCSE Maths and English as part of their course.

No need to worry if you don't have advanced technical skills yet. This programme is designed for those with a keen interest in digital technologies and problem-solving. A basic understanding of IT concepts and a willingness to learn are all you need to start.

T Level Technical Qualification in Digital Support Services

Upon completing the T Level, you will be well-prepared for a career in digital support, with the skills to step straight into roles like IT support technician, network technician, or infrastructure engineer. Alternatively, you can continue your education at university, progressing into a degree in digital technology, computer science, or a related field.

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 6 - 10 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.

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 during interview.