This NFER report for the DfES reveals that the majority of students completing T Levels, the government's flagship technical qualifications, are progressing to university or employment, though awareness of the qualifications among employers remains a challenge.
The study, commissioned by the Department for Education and conducted by NatCen and NFER, surveyed over 5,000 learners who completed T Levels in 2024, focusing on subjects like Education, Construction, Digital, and Health and Science.
Key findings show that 44% of T Level graduates went on to university, 37% entered paid work, and 12% started apprenticeships. Crucially, 71% remained within their T Level's field, indicating a strong link between the qualification and career pathways.
However, the report also highlighted that while students felt well-prepared for the workplace, with 71% agreeing their T Level equipped them, knowledge of the qualifications among employers and educational institutions was "mixed."
"There's a clear indication that T Levels are effectively preparing students for their next steps, particularly in comparison to traditional A-levels," said a spokesperson from NatCen. "However, the challenge of raising employer awareness remains."