Shaping tomorrow: New T Levels in Engineering and Construction

Following a successful bid, we’re delighted to have been entrusted by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) to develop, deliver, and award the next generation of Technical Qualifications (T Levels) in Building Services Engineering for Construction and Onsite Construction. 

Partnering with EAL- the specialist awarding organisation for the building services engineering industry - this project represents a significant advancement in vocational education within these vital sectors. 

In the following blog, Sarah Harris, Assistant Director; Vocational Qualifications explores how the development of next-generation T Levels in Building Services Engineering for Construction and On-site Construction is setting new standards for technical education in England.

T Levels are innovative two-year courses designed for 16 to 19-year-olds who have completed their GCSEs and are seeking a clear route into a vocational career.

These qualifications provide an alternative to A Levels and apprenticeships, equipping learners with the skills needed to enter the workforce directly or pursue further education. 

A key feature of T Levels is the combination of theoretical study with practical, on-the-job training, which includes a minimum of 45 days in an industry placement. This blend ensures that learners are not only academically prepared but also work-ready upon course completion. 

The engineering sector, particularly in building services, plays a crucial role in the UK economy, with a growing demand for skilled professionals. As the industry embraces new technologies and sustainable practices, the need for a knowledgeable and adaptable workforce is greater than ever. 

Our collaboration with EAL is central to this effort. EAL’s deep sector expertise and strong industry connections provide invaluable insights into the development of these qualifications. 

Their leadership in the occupational specialism elements ensures our curriculum aligns with the needs of employers seeking highly skilled engineers for modern construction projects. 

Our offering  

We will offer two distinct T Levels: Building Services Engineering for Construction, launching in September 2025, and Onsite Construction, launching in September 2026. 

While the development timeline is ambitious, our partnership with EAL, coupled with proactive engagement with employers, schools, colleges, and professional bodies, gives us confidence that we can meet these deadlines without compromising on quality. 

Our approach to developing these qualifications is both comprehensive and collaborative. We are actively involving employers, providers, industry bodies and higher education institutions in our development advisory groups, ensuring that those with firsthand knowledge of the sector guide the creation of these qualifications. At the same time, we are reviewing existing content to ensure that it remains current and reflects the latest industry practices, particularly those driven by technological advances and sustainability goals. 

To further enhance this process, we will launch consultations to gather feedback on the current qualifications, allowing stakeholders to influence the development of these new T Levels. 

At Eduqas, our commitment to accessibility and inclusion underpins this entire project. To ensure that our qualifications are accessible to the widest range of learners, our qualification writers and qualification development officers receive comprehensive training on diversity and accessibility. 

In developing this second generation of T Levels, we are building on the lessons learned from the first. A key objective is ensuring the qualifications are manageable for both learners and schools and colleges whilst remaining relevant and engaging. The voice of employers remains central to our process, validating every step we take. 

To maintain this relevance, we will review the qualifications annually, ensuring continuous improvement based on feedback. By collaborating closely with our partners, embracing inclusivity, and continuously refining our approach, we’re raising the bar for technical qualifications. 

This project not only strengthens vocational education but also equips a new generation with the skills needed to keep the engineering and construction sectors moving forward. 

Find out more about the qualifications in development: www.eduqas.co.uk/TLevels