T Level Results Day 2025: a new generation of engineers gears up for industry

As students across the country receive their T Level results, a new wave of skilled, work-ready talent is set to enter the world of engineering and manufacturing. 

T Levels are two-year technical qualifications for 16-19 year olds, developed in collaboration with employers to equip students with the knowledge, practical skills, and real-world experience they need to thrive in industry.

For small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) across the sector, T Levels offer a powerful way to close skills gaps and invest in future talent. 

 

Closing the skills gap

Ongoing skills shortages continue to challenge the engineering and manufacturing sectors – but T Levels are helping to bridge that gap by connecting young people with real-world experience and employer needs. T Level students arrive on placement with a solid foundation of knowledge, including an understanding of key equipment, processes and industry standards.

Grantham-based manufacturer BGB brought T Level students Javan and Young on board in April this year. Production Manager Nathan Flower has been impressed by the breadth and quality of the students’ skills: “They had a good understanding of maths, and they came armed with the knowledge to understand basic drawings and how to use the equipment.” 

He adds: “They’re not working on little projects or test pieces; they’re producing items that go out the door. Young has operated a 150-tonne hydraulic press and worked on components that end up in multimillion-pound wind turbines.” 

BGB plans to offer their current students an apprenticeship on completion of their course. Nathan concludes: “If you’re looking to recruit, T Levels are a no-brainer.” 

 

A strong foundation for apprenticeships

One of the key strengths of T Levels is their ability to prepare students for high-quality apprenticeships. 

As part of their course, engineering and manufacturing students each complete a 45-day industry placement that gives them hands-on training and valuable insights into workplace culture. This, combined with other relevant experience, can in some cases pave the way for accelerated apprenticeships – shortened programmes designed for young people who already have practical skills and a strong understanding of the workplace.

Manchester-based engineering firm R&B Switchgear Group has welcomed twelve T Level students over the last three years. They’ve since offered five of them the chance to come back as apprentices, and each one has accepted the opportunity.  

“I love my placement here. It’s led to me having a job, which is just amazing,” says T Level student Austin. “Coming straight out of college into a job is very rare, so I feel really privileged.”

Technical Training Manager, Gavin Chadwick says: “The T Level students have been a breath of fresh air. They’re keen, enthusiastic and bright – we’ve found some of the best young talent that’s out there.”

 

Ready to find T Level talent for your business?
Thousands of newly qualified T Level students are ready to step into the workforce
– thanks to the support and real-world experience provided by their industry placements.

By hosting a T Level student, you’ll be helping to shape the next generation of engineers and manufacturers – and putting your business in the best position to spot and secure future talent early.

 

Find out how to host a T Level industry placement here: https://employers.tlevels.gov.uk