T-levels, vocational qualifications introduced in 2020 for 16-to-19-year-olds in England, have seen a rise in student numbers each year. However, concerns persist regarding student retention, with many not completing their courses.
The overall retention rate for students who began a T-level in 2023 and completed the two-year programme was 72.9%. This compares to retention rates consistently above 90% for most A-levels and other equivalent qualifications.
The qualifications combine classroom learning with an industry placement of at least 315 hours. A Distinction* grade is worth 168 Ucas points, equivalent to three A*s at A-level, while a Merit is equivalent to three Bs at A-level.
Currently, over 20 T-level subjects are available, including accounting, engineering, and media production. However, new students will no longer be able to start a T-level in onsite construction. The Department for Education (DfE) stated this decision was due to low student numbers, believing that apprenticeships and other classroom provisions better meet the needs of learners and the economy.
The introduction of T-levels aimed to streamline the vocational qualification landscape. Some vocational qualifications that overlapped with T-levels have had their funding withdrawn, while others continue to be funded following a government review. The DfE has indicated that T-levels are intended to become "the large technical qualification of choice."