THE only Further Education college in Cheshire selected by the Government to offer the latest qualification for 16-19-year-olds is fast tracking learners to the next level.

A new employer partnership has been created to provide a learning experience like never before.

From September 2021, Cheshire College will be offering T Levels, a new two-year qualification which comprises of 20 per cent on-the-job experience, and have partnered with elemental analysis specialists Pennine Analytical Laboratories to give Science T Level learners vital experience in the sector.

During the college’s Science T Level programme, learners will complete an extended work placement of at least 45 days to gain important industry experience and further develop the skills needed to progress on to a related higher-level apprenticeship, degree course or into employment within Laboratory Services.

Ruth Szolkowska, vice principal of innovation, curriculum & quality at Cheshire College, said: “It’s such an exciting time to be a learner and the chance to study T Levels at Cheshire College provides young people with a fantastic opportunity to thrive in their chosen subject whilst learning what a real career in the industry they’re hoping to join is truly like.

“We’re thrilled to have partnered with Pennine Analytical Laboratories as one of our official T Level placement providers. Their extensive experience within the industry will be invaluable to our learners as they develop the knowledge, attitude and practical know how to thrive in a laboratory setting.”

Ajax Yhap, quality manager of Pennine Analytical Laboratories, said: “Pennine Analytical Laboratories is delighted to come on board as one of Cheshire College’s T Level placement providers. We truly recognise the value of work placements for learners and understanding how hard they can be to come by in the scientific sector we were only too happy to get involved."

During their placement with Pennine Analytical Laboratories, learners will gain hands-on experience allowing them to put the skills and knowledge they’ve learnt in the classroom into practice. This will include the principles of good scientific and clinical practice, scientific methodology and experimental techniques.

Science T Level learners will gain a nationally recognised certificate upon successful completion of their two-year programme, which can lead them to progress into roles such as Biochemists, Research Scientists or Laboratory Scientists.

If you would like to know more about studying T Levels at Cheshire College visit https://www.ccsw.ac.uk/t-levels/.

If you would like to know more about T Level industry placements, please email workexperience@ccsw.ac.uk or call 01270 654654 (Crewe Campus) / 01244 656555 (Ellesmere Port and Chester Campuses).