Sunderland College has been announced as one of 64 further education providers nationally to deliver the second wave of the new T Level qualifications.

The college will offer T Level courses in Digital, Construction and Health and Science from September 2021.

Sunderland College, which also includes Hartlepool Sixth Form, was one of only two education providers selected from the North East region to deliver the new post-16 technical qualifications.

Judith Quinn, Interim Deputy Principal for Curriculum at Sunderland College, said: “We are delighted to have been selected as a key provider to launch the second wave of T Levels, which will bring significant benefits to our students and employer partners.

“We are very much looking forward to playing a key role in transforming technical education across the country and supporting our students in gaining the essential skills and knowledge required by industry.”

T Levels, which will be officially launched in September 2020, will follow GCSEs and will be equivalent to 3 A-Levels.

They will combine classroom theory, practical learning and a substantial industry placement (a minimum of 315 hours), to ensure students gain real workplace experience.

The new 2-year courses have been developed in collaboration with employers to ensure content meets the needs of industry and prepare students for work and progression to highly skilled employment, an apprenticeship or higher level study.

Young people entering year 10 in September 2019, will be the first to be able to choose T Levels at Sunderland College, which they will study after completing their GCSEs in year 11.

Education Secretary, Damian Hinds, said: “Everyone agrees that a radical shake-up of technical and vocational education in this country is long overdue.

“T Levels are our chance to do that – offering young people high-quality alternatives to our world-class A Levels from September 2020.

“The second wave of post-16 providers we have announced today demonstrates our commitment to making this happen.

“They will play an important role ensuring more young people across the country can access these courses and help develop the skilled workforce the country needs for the future.”

Eligible T Level providers needed to demonstrate satisfactory financial health, a minimum of 100 current students across all pathways and a good or outstanding Ofsted rating.

For more information about Sunderland College, visit the next open event, ring 0191 511 6000 or go to www.sunderlandcollege.ac.uk