Following the publication of a UK National Audit Office investigation into the introduction of T Levels, Chief Executive of the Baker Dearing Educational Trust Kate Ambrosi issued the following response:

“The Department for Education‘s Curriculum and Assessment Review has rightly described T Levels as the ‘gold-standard technical qualification’ and the experience of University Technical Colleges, which we support, of delivering T Levels is that they help students’ educational progression and labour market outcomes.

“Last summer, nearly half (43 per cent) of young people leaving a UTC with a T Level progressed onto an apprenticeship and 36 per cent progressed onto higher education. This proves that T Levels can meet the needs of employers for young STEM talent in sectors such as engineering and science.

“We are pleased by the report’s findings that the number of students starting a T Level has increased each year. Over a thousand young people are now studying a T Level qualification, including the T Level Foundation Year, through a UTC.

“While we support providers having the option of providing a blended Level 3 offer, Baker Dearing would argue there is much to be gained by the DfE giving greater backing to the roll-out of T Levels. Therefore, we agree with the NAO’s conclusion that the department should continue efforts to expand industry placements as these do remain an issue for providers.

“Industry placements are vital for preparing T Level students for progression into work. The placements are also popular with young people, who want that first-hand experience of industry.”