As you prepare for your GCSEs, the question of ‘what next?’ looms. As you know everyone is required to be in some form of education until the age of 18 years old. The good news is that there are lots of option including the new T-Levels which are an exciting fusion of learning and workplace experience that can give you the right mix of qualifications and real-world experience that you need to get a job, an apprenticeship or a place at university.
At USP College, we understand the significance of guiding students' choices in how you study and prepare for your future career. In this blog, we’ll delve into T-Levels to help you make the all-important decision on ‘what’s next’.
With numerous options available, it can be difficult to decide which educational path to take. Two prominent pathways stand out: A-Levels and T-Levels, each offering advantages tailored to different career aspirations and learning styles.
A-LEVELSThe traditional route of study |
T-LEVELSThe perfect fusion between learning and workplace experience |
A-Levels have traditionally been the most common route for students to choose after GCSEs. Usually completed over a duration of 2 years, A-Levels will give you the opportunity to focus on your favourite subjects and gain valuable skills such as essay writing, critical thinking and research.
If you are not sure which career path you want to take, but you do know the subjects that you enjoy the most, then A-Levels are a good choice for you. At A-Level you can study the subjects you like the most in more depth. |
T-Levels are a relatively new approach to education, designed to equip you with the practical skills and industry-specific knowledge that the workplace requires. It helps to overcome the challenge of being able to show a future employer that you have both academic qualifications and practical workplace experience.
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Entry Requirements |
A-Levels |
T-Levels |
The typical entry requirements for an A-Level course are five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English Language and maths. | The typical entry requirements for a T-Level course are five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English language or maths, this may also include an appropriate level 2 qualification. |
PROGRESSION ROUTES |
A-Levels will open many doors for you, such as exploring subjects you’re passionate about, studying at university, or going straight into work with an apprenticeship or into regular employment.
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T-Levels are recognised by employers and Universities so are an ideal blend of knowledge and experience which will enhance your CV.
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GRADES |
One T-Level is equivalent to three full A-Levels. You will receive grades for your studies and a workplace grade from your work placement which you can share with future employers to show your skills and how well you applied these in the workplace. If you have your sights on studying at university, here’s how the grades work in relation to UCAS tariff points: |
A-Level Grade |
UCAS Tariff Points |
T-Level Grade |
A*A*A* | 168 | Distinction* |
AAA | 144 | Distinction |
BBB | 120 | Merit |
CCC | 96 | Pass with C or higher in your component |
DDD | 72 | Pass with D or E in your core component |
Your T-Level certificate will provide you with an overall grade and separate grades for the core components using A* to E. There will also be a separate grade for each occupational specialism using D/M/P (Distinction / Merit / Pass). Are you ready to choose?Both A-Levels and T-Levels offer very distinct pathways to success. Whether you aspire to pursue a university degree or embark straight into a fulfilling career, USP College will provide you with the support and guidance to help you navigate your way through these important decisions. However, if either of these do not seem like the right option for you then maybe our vocational qualifications may be better for you, such as BTECs.
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T-Levels
Designed to provide you with the skills you'll need for the workplace