Justine Greening, the Secretary of State for Education, gave a speech at the British Chambers of Commerce Education Summit on the introduction of T-Levels for 16 – 19 year-olds (external link) which were announced in March. Ms Greening stated that she wanted to “create an army of skilled young people for British business”, describing T-levels as “a gold standard for technical and professional excellence”. Greening also announced that:
- from April 2018 there will be a £50 million investment for work placements – these will form a crucial part of the T-level;
- a further £15 million to “contribute to improvements in further education so we have the colleges and teachers we need to deliver the new T levels”;
- an increased remit for the Further Education Commissioner to take on responsibility for Further Education Colleges and Sixth Form Colleges;
- a Department for Education Summit at the start of the next academic year to develop T levels with businesses.
For governors and trustees, particularly in secondary schools, understanding the options available for school leavers is vital to ensuring that the school offers impartial and informed careers advice. Where appropriate, those governing may want to consider gaining assurances from executive leaders that young people are aware of all post-16 routes and opportunities, including the new T-levels.