Gavin Williamson visits Havant and South Downs College to 'give birth' to new T-level qualification
The education secretary is visiting Havant and South Downs College (HSDC) to look at its new facilities for T-levels.
During a speech in the college’s new digital hub, Mr Williamson said: ‘We are pleased to partner with Havant and South Downs College to give birth to a new qualification which will last for years to come.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad‘T-levels set out a great opportunity to equip a young person to be the best they can be.
‘We recognise we have to invest more capital in college infrastructure to ensure the best for young people in this college and community.’
Mr Williamson believes the new qualification offers a more employment-driven qualification compared to traditional A-levels.
He added: ‘This course has been developed after extensive consultation with employers and and their needs. The skills students develop are very much based around the world of work.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad‘I have been really impressed with what I have seen here at HSDC and which is part of our strategy to create a college education system that is world class.’
It’s a sentiment shared by college principal, Mike Gaston.
Mr Gaston said: ‘T-levels allow students to combine college study with industrial work placements. We work closely with local employers to ensure we are delivering students who are equipped with the skills they want.’
One student who particularly enjoyed the balance between academic and vocational training is 16-year-old construction student, Josh Sines.
Josh, who used to attend Horndean Technology, said: ‘I prefer this to an apprenticeship as it offers a good balance with A-levels. I also really like the fact you get to do 45 days in a work placement.’
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide AdDuring the visit, Mr Williamson spent time flying one of the drones which is used on both the construction and digital courses.