Bolton College T Level students, Tom Daly and Ryan James, are excelling in their Industry Placements at Aptus Utilities, where they are acquiring hands-on experience and gaining invaluable insights into the sectors they would like to build careers in.

A key part of a T Level programme is a sector-specific Industry Placement, accounting for 20% of the course, opening the door into skilled employment, degree education and higher Apprenticeships.  

Ryan James, studying a T Level in Engineering & Manufacturing, said: "I’m picking up lots of knowledgeable information and I’m taking the skills I’ve learned at College and applying them here.” 

Aptus Utilities is a leading multi-utility connections provider delivering gas, water, electric, and street lighting design and installation services throughout the UK.

Natasha Clarke, People Director at Aptus Utilities, discussed the company's positive experience: "We looked into the concept of T Level Industry Placements and decided they were a good idea; unlike traditional work experience, Industry Placements give students an extended period to get involved in various aspects of the business.

“They’re also a lot more flexible than work experience, where you’re usually expected to commit a full week. We have Tom and Ryan two days per week, which works well for them and also for us.

“The students have been working with different departments to get a well-rounded experience of the company and they will benefit from time in the tender, design and project management teams as well as other departments.

“Tom and Ryan have settled in well and feedback has been extremely positive. We’ve approached the placements with the view that if the students are successful and committed, there is potential for employment at the end.”

Tom Daly, studying a T Level in Mechanical Engineering, said: "I chose a T Level because I wanted to combine the academic with the practical, and the Industry Placement is going to set me up for a better career in engineering.

“The placement has been good; not only am I getting hands-on experience in all different areas, benefitting me in the future, but I’ve also developed my skills in design engineering. I’ve worked on gas engineering, electrical engineering and water meter drawings as well as carrying out estimations.

"After I’ve completed my T Level I’d love a career here, possibly doing a Level 4 Apprenticeship.”