T Level

If you want a career-focused alternative to A Levels, gain real industry experience with a T Level at Willerby Grove Campus, Peterlee or Houghall College, Durham City Campus.

T Levels overview

T Levels are technical qualifications for 16–19-year-olds who want a career-focused alternative to A Levels. Launched nationally in 2020, they combine classroom learning with a substantial industry placement, giving you the knowledge, skills and experience employers are looking for.

We introduced T Levels at EDC in September 2022 and offer a growing range of pathways that reflect the region's needs. Our T Level subjects have been carefully selected to reflect regional skills shortages and the most in-demand careers across the North East.

Why choose a T Level?

A T Level is ideal if you want:

a career-driven qualification that prepares you for skilled work
a course that blends 80% classroom learning with 20% industry experience
a programme designed with employers, giving you insight into real workplaces
a qualification equivalent to 3 A Levels, recognised by universities and employers
a strong route into higher education, apprenticeships or skilled employment

What makes T Levels different?

T Levels bring together the best elements of academic and technical study. You'll:

learn core theory, concepts and industry practices
complete occupational specialisms linked to real job roles
access modern, industry-standard facilities across all campuses
gain experience through long-term industry placements
build the professional behaviours employers value

One of the standout features is the industry placement, which gives you at least 45 days (315 hours) of direct experience in your chosen sector.

View all T Level courses by visiting the course finder.

Our T Level facilities

We've redeveloped areas across our campuses to give you industry-standard facilities for your T Level, including:

a hospital ward with motorised beds, weighted mannequins and a seating area for theory sessions, for T Level Health students
a digital suite with high-spec gaming PCs, a dedicated server cabinet for simulating problems, drones, video cameras and 3D Printers, for T Level Digital students
a childcare lecture theatre and nursery observation room, connected to our on-site Positive Steps nursery, for T Level Childcare students
digital design and CAD software and surveying equipment, for T Level Construction students

Where it could lead

After completing your T Level, you can progress to:

skilled employment in your chosen sector
a higher apprenticeship
university-level study, thanks to full UCAS points

Because T Levels are designed with employers, they help you build the confidence and experience you need to stand out.

NEW for 2027/28

T Level Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction

Develop the technical knowledge, digital skills and professional behaviours needed for roles in surveying, design, engineering and planning.

To register your interest, email Peter.Sinclair@eastdurham.ac.uk

Fees & funding

Course fees vary by level. Full-time courses are free for 16 to 18-year-olds. Adult students may also be eligible for funding depending on circumstances.

To find out more, check our Course Fees & Funding page.