As it’s T Levels Week 2025, we’re reflecting on how these valuable, career-focused qualifications can help young people achieve their goals.
Introduced in 2020, T Levels are two-year programmes, developed alongside employers to ensure learners are gaining the specific skills needed by the industry.
As part of the T Level course, learners will take part in a work experience placement of at least 45 days to help them gain experience within their future work environment, deepening their understanding of employer processes and building confidence using industry-standard equipment.
Derek and Mark are currently completing a Laboratory Science T Level with us, we caught up with them both to hear how they’re finding the T Level course so far…
What is the most interesting part of your course?
Mark: “The T Level Laboratory Science course is very diverse. I’ve enjoyed completing presentations, exploring data handling & analysis, engaging in many group discussions, and drafting various structured writing pieces. It has helped me develop a large skill set.”
Derek: “I found the UCL work experience placement to be the most interesting part of my course so far!”
What are your next steps after your programme finishes?
Derek: “I’m planning to go down the science apprenticeship route.”
Mark: “I’m not 100% sure yet, I’m considering an apprenticeship but also exploring undergraduate degrees at university.”
What was the most surprising thing about studying at the College?
Mark: “I’ve found that learning at NHC isn’t just about academic studies, but also gaining various social and practical skills which have helped my personal development.”
How has the College/your course helped you plan your next steps?
Derek: “NHC has provided me with practical skills, expert guidance, and real-life work experience which has given me a taster of so many different jobs within the science industry. This has helped me so much when it comes to making informed decisions about what path I want to take for my future career.”
Mark: “For me, the engaging lessons and support from my tutors has been super helpful.”
Have you done any work experience during your time with NHC, and how has this benefitted you?
Mark: “I’ve gained real-life work experience as a lab technician assistant, a pharmacy assistant and worked on placement a UCL. These experiences have enriched my classroom learning and inspired me to aim for a career in science.”
Derek: “I’ve done over 200 hours of work experience in a pharmacy, boosting my understanding of how they operate and the impact different medications can have on patients. This has broadened my understanding of how interconnected the science industry is, and how different roles overlap.”
If you could speak to someone that’s thinking of studying at NHC, what would you say to them?
Derek: “I would encourage them to do so, and tell them to make the most of their time at college. They should be efficient and productive with the days they have off to achieve the best results possible. They should step out of their comfort zone and try something new socially, I’ve made friends for life! I would ask them to study the subjects that truly interest them and always ask tutors if they need guidance or support.”
And finally, where do you hope to be in five years’ time?
Mark: “Employed! I look forward to working in a science-based role that helps me develop my skills even further”
Derek: “I hope to be in a job that I truly enjoy and motivated me to wake up every morning to be productive. I hope to be in an industry that helps others whilst also having the financial freedom to travel the world!”
We’re incredibly proud of Mark and Derek’s work on their Laboratory Science T Level so far. We wish them the very best of luck with their studies!
Could you follow in Derek and Mark’s footsteps? Be the best you. Ever. Start your Science career at NHC.