We recently spoke with two of our T Level Alumni, Holly Clarke and Grace Van Der Kamp, who are showing that T Levels are a springboard to success! Both are making fantastic strides in their chosen fields by progressing onto university to take next steps towards their goals.

From T Levels to teaching: Holly Clarke’s journey

Holly is currently studying a BA Honours degree in Primary Education with QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) at Manchester Metropolitan University. This qualification will help her become a fully qualified teacher following her graduation.

Her T Level in Education and Childcare played a pivotal role in securing her spot in this competitive programme. Holly credits her T Level experience with giving her a strong understanding of teaching as a career and enhancing her confidence through a hands-on industry placement in a primary school.

Holly had this to say on how her T Level helped her take her next steps:

“Doing a T Level, instead of the traditional A Level route, helped me get a very deep and specialised grounding in my chosen career.”

Holly also spoke on how her T Level helped grow her self-confidence:

“Having practical experience really increased my self-confidence, and helped cement my decision to pursue a career in teaching. It also gave me a solid foundation of knowledge and depth of understanding that other students on my University course didn’t come with. As a result, I have been able to take on extra responsibilities such as Student Ambassador, Outreach Worker, and Course Representative.”

Holly also currently volunteers with Children Without Limits, a scheme helping children from underprivileged backgrounds reach their potential. She credits her T Level experience at Bury College with helping her achieve these career and CV-enhancing opportunities.

When asked what advice Holly would give to someone considering studying a T Level, Holly spoke glowingly about the T Level programme:

“T Levels have the perfect balance of preparing you for both work and University, so your options aren’t restricted to either one or the other. Although the placements may seem a bit daunting at first, you have the backing of your tutors who will guide you through it. T Level courses are absorbing, fun and unique, and you have the opportunity to learn many transferable skills.”

From classroom to care: Grace Van Der Kamp’s inspiring pathway

Grace is currently thriving in her second year at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), studying for a BSc in Paramedic Science.

Grace also works part-time as a healthcare assistant within the NHS , a role she secured after completing her T Level in Health.

Grace highlighted how her T Level gave her an edge when progressing onto university:

“My T Level provided me with the UCAS points and the confidence to progress onto university, as well as the chance to undertake placements with the Ambulance Service. The skills and knowledge I gained on my T Level course gave me an advantage over others when starting my University course.

“I was also able to secure a job from my placement as a Healthcare Assistant, which has not only been enjoyable, but a great way to earn money and gain further skills whilst at university.”

Grace couldn’t have recommended T Levels any more highly, saying “T Levels provide a great opportunity to gain knowledge, skills and most importantly confidence. The Simulation Ward at Bury College helped prepare me for my placement, and it is centred around patient care and the NHS core values, which made it easier for me to transition to university, as well as working in the NHS straight after college.”

We would like to thank both Holly and Grace for their comments and would like to wish them all the best as they continue to progress on their university courses.