T Level in Laboratory Science (Health and Science)

T Levels are new qualifications that follow GCSEs and are equivalent to three A Levels. The T Level in Laboratory Science (Health and Science) combines classroom theory and practical learning, and is made up of the following:

1. A technical qualification studied over two years which covers the core knowledge required in the sector
2. An industry placement of at least 315 hours (approximately 45 days) with an employer to make sure you have authentic experience of the workplace

The T Level Science is a composite technical study programme, aimed at preparing young people for work, higher level apprenticeships or higher education (HE). It comprises 5 key objectives to equip students with:

• the core knowledge and core skills relevant to science
• up-to-date occupational knowledge and skills that have continued currency amongst employers and others
• the necessary English, mathematics and digital skills
• threshold competence that meets employer expectations and is as close to full occupational competence as possible
• opportunities to manage and improve their own performance

The purpose of the Level 3 TQ in Science is to ensure students have the knowledge and skills needed to progress into skilled employment or higher level technical training relevant to the T Level. The Technical Qualification (TQ) in Science has 2 components:

• core component: The core, comprising route and pathway core components, provides a variety of knowledge and skills relevant to the health and science route as a whole, as well as the occupational specialism components within the science pathway. Some of the core topics and ideas are broken down and contextualised in more detail within the occupational specialisms (laboratory science), allowing students to apply the knowledge and skills in their own specific context.
• occupational specialism component: laboratory sciences: The laboratory science component covers the knowledge, understanding, skills and behaviours required to achieve threshold competence in a chosen occupational specialism. Threshold competence refers to the level of competence deemed by employers as sufficient to secure employment in roles relevant to an occupational specialism. Achievement of threshold competence signals that a student is well placed to develop full occupational competence, with further support and development, once in work. English, mathematics and digital skills have also been embedded throughout the TQ.
• Industry placement experience:  Industry placements are intended to provide students with the opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours required for skilled employment which are less easily attainable by completing a qualification alone. As part of achieving the overall T Level programme, students are required to complete a minimum of 315 hours industry placement.

Guided learning hours (GLH) and total qualification time (TQT)