Engineering and Manufacturing T Level

If you are interested in how things work, enjoy solving problems and want to help shape the technologies of the future, this course is for you. Our T Level in Engineering and Manufacturing combines creativity, innovation and practical engineering skills to turn ideas into real-world solutions. You will explore cutting-edge design, manufacturing and engineering technologies while working on projects inspired by industry. Through specialist facilities, employer-led learning and a substantial industry placement, you will develop the confidence, knowledge and experience needed to make a real impact. Whether your ambition is to become an engineer, designer or innovator, this course will help you take the first step towards an exciting and rewarding career.

Why choose
Engineering and Manufacturing T Level?

You will learn in specialist engineering classrooms, CAD suites and workshops designed to reflect engineering environments. Our experienced teaching team combines strong technical knowledge with employer-focused learning, ensuring you develop the skills industry demands. Through exciting design and manufacturing projects, access to advanced software and equipment, and a minimum 315-hour industry placement, you will gain valuable real-world experience that prepares you for university, apprenticeships and careers in engineering and manufacturing.

Course modules/units

During the two-year programme, you will study a broad range of core engineering topics including Engineering Business and Project Management, Health and Safety, Principles of Design, Engineering Mathematics, Engineering Science, Materials and Manufacturing Processes, Sustainability in Engineering, and Engineering Practices. In the second year, you will specialise in either Mechanical Engineering or Electrical and Electronic Engineering (subject to demand), alongside completing a substantial industry placement and employer-led projects that develop your technical and professional skills.

• Engineering Business and Project Management
• Health and Safety in Engineering and Manufacturing
• Principles of Design
• Engineering Mathematics
• Engineering Science
• Materials and Manufacturing Processes
• Sustainability in Engineering
• Engineering Practices
• Mechanical Engineering (Occupational Specialism)*
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering (Occupational Specialism)*
• Employer-Set Project
• Industry Placement (Minimum 315 Hours)

Students will normally follow either the Mechanical Engineering or the Electrical and Electronic Engineering specialism, subject to demand and course delivery.

Additional information

As a student, you will…

• Apply engineering principles to design and develop solutions to real-world engineering and manufacturing challenges.
• Use industry-standard CAD software and digital technologies to create, model and refine engineering designs.
• Investigate how materials, science, mathematics and sustainability influence engineering decisions and product development.
• Manage engineering projects by planning, testing and evaluating solutions to meet specific client and industry requirements.
• Develop professional workplace skills through a substantial industry placement with an engineering or manufacturing employer.
• Analyse mechanical, electrical and manufacturing systems to understand how engineering innovations shape the modern world.

Teaching & learning

Learning on the T Level is hands-on, practical and industry-focused. You will develop your knowledge through a mix of classroom teaching, discussions, problem-solving activities and project-based learning. Using industry-standard CAD software, engineering equipment and specialist workshop facilities, you will apply theory to real engineering challenges. Employer engagement, industry placements, and visits to engineering workplaces help bring the subject to life. You will work both independently and as part of a team, building the technical, communication and professional skills required for success in the engineering and manufacturing sector.

Course assessment

Assessment is based on a combination of examinations, practical application and industry-focused assignments. In Year 1, you will complete two externally assessed core examinations covering engineering knowledge, concepts and principles, alongside an externally assessed employer-set project based on a realistic engineering challenge. In Year 2, you will complete occupational specialism assessments linked to your chosen pathway, such as Mechanical Engineering or Electrical and Electronic Engineering. To achieve the full T Level, you must also successfully complete and record evidence from a minimum 315-hour industry placement with an engineering employer.

Actual assessment short version: Assessment is through two externally set examinations, an externally assessed Employer Set Project, and occupational specialism assessments, together with successful completion of a minimum 315-hour industry placement.

What can I do with this qualification?

Successful completion of this course can lead to exciting careers in engineering, advanced manufacturing, product design, electronics, renewable energy, aerospace, motorsport and defence. You could progress to a Higher or Degree Apprenticeship, an HNC/HND, a Foundation Degree or a university degree in Engineering or a related subject. Career opportunities include Engineering Technician, Manufacturing Technician, Design Engineer and Design Support Technician. The combination of technical study and industry placement gives you the skills and experience valued by employers and higher education providers.