Wiltshire College & University Centre has recorded its highest ever T Level enrolment, with over 400 students signed up for the 2025/26 academic year — a 71% increase on last year’s figures.
The surge in interest has prompted the launch of a major new employer campaign, "The Big Placement Pledge," aimed at securing high-quality industry placements for every learner across the county.
T Levels are two-year technical qualifications for 16 to 19-year-olds, combining classroom learning with real-world work experience. Each course includes a 45-day industry placement — giving students hands-on experience in their chosen field while helping businesses identify and develop future talent.
The College now offers T Level programmes across a wide range of sectors, including:
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Engineering and manufacturing
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Health and healthcare science
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Digital and cyber security
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Agriculture and animal management
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Business, accounting and management
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Education and early years
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Land-based engineering
This year, the strongest growth has been seen in engineering and land-based industries, where regional demand for skilled young workers is high.
Ann Simpson, Work Placement Team Leader at the College, said the new campaign is a call to action for local employers. “T Levels allow businesses to play an active role in shaping the workforce of tomorrow,” she said. “They also demonstrate a company’s commitment to supporting and nurturing young talent — something that really matters to both customers and employees.”
Several local employers are already on board. Apsley Precision Engineering, near Salisbury, has been offering placements for the past three years — and has now taken on one of its former students as a full-time apprentice.
“We open our doors to T Levels because they work,” said Jon Paul-Sanders, Operations Manager at Apsley. “It’s another pair of hands, it’s free, and it’s a great way to try before you buy.”
At Mitie, a national facilities management firm, T Level students are being welcomed into teams across the business.
Account Director Rich Garland believes the programme is a win-win. “What students bring is energy, enthusiasm and a fresh perspective. It’s not hard to support them — all it takes is a conversation.”
Wiltshire Council is also supporting the programme, with business students placed across departments including front-of-house roles, data analysis, and community engagement.
“The 315 placement hours help students really settle in,” said Kathryn Partington, the council’s Apprenticeship and Early Careers Lead. “Managers have given such positive feedback that more teams want to take part each year.”
Through The Big Placement Pledge, the College is now urging more employers across Wiltshire to get involved. Businesses will receive full support, from help with matching students and handling paperwork, to ongoing contact throughout the placement. Most students are covered under existing employer liability insurance, and placements are unpaid.
“We’re asking employers to make a simple but powerful commitment,” said Ann Simpson. “By opening your door to a young person, you could help shape their future — and find a valuable addition to your own team.”
To take part in The Big Placement Pledge or find out more, visit the Wiltshire College website or contact the Work Placement Team directly.
Photo: Apsley Engineering Operations Director Jon Paul-Sanders with students Tommy and
Dylan.
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