The City and Guilds T-level in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing (Electrical and Electronic pathway) is a two-year course for students aged 16 and above. This qualification is designed for those interested in a career in electrical and electronic engineering, providing both technical knowledge and hands-on experience. T-levels are equivalent to three A-levels and include classroom learning and industry placement.
By completing this course, students gain key skills, including: Problem-Solving: Tackling engineering challenges and finding solutions. Technical Skills: Working with tools, equipment, and electronic systems. Teamwork and Communication: Working with others and presenting ideas clearly. Time Management: Balancing tasks and meeting deadlines.
-
What will I study?
This T-level covers both core engineering principles and specialized electrical/electronic skills. Key areas of study include:
Engineering Principles: Basics of how engineering works, including physics, materials, and design. Electrical and Electronic Systems: Understanding circuits, power, and how different components work together in devices and machines. Programming and Digital Systems: Basics of coding and digital electronics, including how to program simple devices and manage digital systems. Health, Safety, and Risk Management: Learning how to work safely, understand risk, and follow best practices. Engineering Project Management: Planning and managing engineering projects, from initial ideas to final production.
A key part of the T-level is the industry placement, where students spend at least 315 hours (about 45 days) working with an employer. During the placement, students apply what they?ve learned in a real engineering setting, working alongside professionals. This experience helps build confidence, practical skills, and an understanding of workplace expectations.
-
Who is this course for?
The City and Guilds T-level in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing (Electrical/Electronic pathway) is an excellent option for students interested in an engineering career, providing both the academic knowledge and practical experience to get started in the industry.
-
How is the course assessed?
The T-level combines exams, coursework, and a final project. Assessments test both your knowledge and your ability to apply skills to solve real engineering problems.
Exams cover core topics like engineering principles and health and safety. Coursework involves practical assignments and tasks related to electrical and electronic systems. The Final Project is a major piece where students design, develop, and present an engineering solution.
-
Your Study Programme
If you are aged 16-18, you will join a Study Programme this could be a vocational or technical qualification. We will make sure you are working at the right level on your core qualification and are challenged to achieve the highest level of qualification you can.
Work experience will be part of your study programme and complement your college study and prepare you for employment. You will also get involved in activities to help you develop life skills and to build your confidence so you can make progress in your career.
If you have chosen to study for a T Level qualification, this will involve college-based theory and practice lessons along with relevant work placement to enable you to gain the knowledge, skills and behaviours that employers are looking for.
Weekly timetables will include tutorial support which may comprise of full group activities or one to one sessions to discuss individual progress or support needs.
All students will continue to improve their maths and English and if you don't have a grade 4 (C) at GCSE, we will work with you towards achieving that goal (subject to specific entry requirements for particular courses).
-
General info
Students on this course will need:
- T level textbook
- General stationery
- Travel costs to placement may be incurred.
You may be required to go on trips or purchase a kit and uniform to undertake this course. Information about individual items and their associated costs will be sent to you in June/July before you enrol. Some students may be eligible for support from the Student Bursary Scheme with the costs of coming to college. Applications are available on the college website under Student Support. If you require further assistance or would like to speak with a member of Student Services, please email financial.support@northamptoncollege.ac.uk or call 01604 734066. If you are applying for financial assistance, please do not purchase any kit items. If your application is successful, the necessary items will be provided to you.
-
Progression and Career Opportunities
After completing this T-level, students can:
Enter the Workforce: Qualify for entry-level roles such as engineering technician, electronics technician, or junior developer. Apprenticeships: Many students progress to higher-level apprenticeships in engineering or electronics. University: Students can also choose to continue their studies in fields like electronic engineering, robotics, or computer science.
-
Entry Requirements for new students
Five GCSEs at grade A*-C (9-5) English Language, Maths and Science GCSEs must be at grade 5 or better Equivalent qualifications will be considered. In exceptional circumstances, applications which do not meet the formal entry criteria may be considered on an individual basis.
-
Admissions Process
We recommend that you attend one of our exciting open events so that you can look around the department, the college and meet the tutors. You are welcome to do this before or after you apply. These events have proved very successful in ensuring students and their families see the best of what the college has to offer such as our inspirational teaching areas, teachers, library facilities and places to eat.
Once you have applied our experienced Enrolment Team will consider your application carefully and will let you know, by email, if the College would like to make you a conditional offer based on you meeting the specified entry requirements.
If your predicted grades or career aims suggest that an alternative subject area or course level would be more appropriate for you at this stage, we will contact you either by telephone, email or text. If you have told us that you have some additional support needs, we will contact you to find out more so that we can help you.
