Almost two-thirds of manufacturing companies (65%) haven’t heard of T Levels, according to Make UK’s latest report.

T Levels - make or break for manufacturers? sets out the organisation’s concerns about the implementation of T Levels for manufacturers asking for the government to do more to raise awareness amongst employers.

The manufacturing industry supports the principles behind T Levels believing they can form part of the solution to help fill the skills gap the industry faces, but has the following recommendations for encouraging T Level success:

Industry placements

• Simulated work environments should be permitted
• More financial support is needed for employers
• Employers require flexibility about when they can host a placement
• More guidance and support is required for employers
• More than one employer should be allowed.

Parity of esteem

• Post-16 pathways should be clearly mapped
• Higher Education Institutions must accept T Level students
• Additional careers support is required to bridge the gap between manufacturers and education.

Structure

• T Levels should focus on the breadth of knowledge rather than the depth
• Employers should be consulted on grading structures
• T Levels should include work-readiness and digital skills modules.