Shaping the workforce of the future

Basingstoke College of Technology (BCoT) and local businesses have come together to help shape the area’s future workforce.

Twelve companies from the healthcare, childcare, construction and engineering industries joined BCoT course leaders at an employers’ breakfast to discuss T-Levels.

T-Levels are technical-based qualifications which focus on vocational skills and can help students into skilled employment, higher study or apprenticeships. They are developed in collaboration with employers and businesses so that the content meets the needs of industry.

The employers’ breakfast was organised by BCoT to give local organisations an introduction to why T-Levels have come into effect and discuss how they can influence the curriculum.

Vicky Quilter, Faculty Head at BCoT, said:

“We were delighted to welcome local businesses to the College to discuss how they can benefit from our T-Level courses. It was a really positive event, and we are looking forward to working with businesses more closely in subject-specific groups so we can shape our T-Level curriculum to ensure that the future workforce is ready and educated for our businesses.”

Sarah Burch, a consultant working with Whitehill & Bordon Regeneration Company, said:

“The event was very informative and a great way not only to understand how students with T- Levels can positively contribute to our business, but also how we can influence the courses students undertake so the whole process is mutually beneficial.”

T-Levels are an alternative to A-Levels, apprenticeships and other 16-19 courses. Equivalent to 3 A levels, a T-Level includes an in-depth industry placement that lasts at least 45 days. Students get valuable experience in the workplace; employers get early sight of the new talent in their industry.