T Level Science

T-levels are level 3 qualifications, done over two years, that require students to undertake both a technical qualification and an industry placement with an employer.

The T Level is split into three main sections:

– Technical Qualification, the core knowledge. This is the main classroom-based element. Students will learn about laboratory science through a curriculum designed by employers and developed by the awarding body (NCFE). The core knowledge gained is assessed via 2 written examinations, opportunities for resits are available in year 2.

– Occupational specialism (Laboratory sciences), this will include a series of classroom-based projects, practicals and assignments to demonstrate your knowledge and skills. These will be focussed on topics more specific to laboratory science than topics covered in the Core knowledge section, including higher biology, chemistry and physics.

– Industry Specialism, this is a coursework-based unit and is graded, you will be awarded either a Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction*. It will also include a final project in the second year in which you work alongside your employer for your industry placement.

Throughout the course pupils will perform a range of appropriate scientific techniques to collect experimental data in a lab setting, complying with regulations and requirements.

The industry placement will be arranged by RDUTC with our employer partners, pupils will work in a laboratory within a company one day a week for a minimum of 45 days over the two years, there will also be some block placements. This will give students practical insight into the sector and an opportunity to embed the knowledge and skills learned in the classroom, helping them to #gettheedge in the laboratory sciences.

English, maths and digital provision are also built into the classroom-based element of the T Level, meaning students will be given a solid foundation of transferable skills. UCAS points are also awarded on completion of the T-level.