T-Levels

No, we still offer other vocational options for 16-18 year olds that will allow you to progress onto higher study, apprenticeships or employment, as well as apprenticeships of all levels. If you wish to study an academic subject, you can choose A Levels. Newcastle College does not currently offer A Levels, but you can apply to study an A Level course at Newcastle Sixth Form College, which is right next door to us.

One T-Level is equivalent to three A Levels, so whatever your goals or next steps, you will have many options open to you! You can choose to progress to a degree or other higher study or into an apprenticeship, or you can go straight into skilled employment.

T-Levels are designed to get you the practical skills you need, while A Levels focus more on theory.

One T-Level is equivalent to three A Levels, though you'll still be awarded UCAS points for completing a T-Level course. This is because on a T-Level, you study one subject with different pathways, in order to gain in depth knowledge and skills in your chosen area.

Each T-Level is a two-year programme and includes an industry placement that lasts at least 45 days (or 90 days if you're studying an Education and Early Years T-Level). You'll spend 80% of your time in the classroom learning the skills that employers need and the other 20% in industry, putting these skills into action and gaining real experience.

T-Levels are designed to bring classroom learning and work experience closer together and you'll spend 80% of your time in the classroom learning the skills, with the other 20% spent in the workplace putting them into practice. 

This is different from an apprenticeship, where the focus is more on workplace training. On an apprenticeship, you spend 80% of your time in a real, full-time job, with 20% of the time spent in a classroom being supported to learn the theoretical skills and knowledge that you can apply while working with your employer.

You will ordinarily require a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English, maths and science, to qualify for a T-Level course.

You may also be required to participate in an assessment to ensure suitability ahead of enrolment.