T Levels
Gillingham School are delighted to be offering the option of studying a T Level in Digital Software Development from September 2026, with further T level courses to be added in future years. T Levels are exciting, two year qualifications for students aged 16–19, designed to provide a high quality alternative to A Levels and apprenticeships. Developed in collaboration with employers, they combine classroom learning with real-world experience to prepare students for skilled employment, university, or higher apprenticeships. One T level is the equivalent of three A levels, with UCAS points awarded and is a valuable stepping stone for students who want to learn, apply, and succeed in the real world.
Join us for our Sixth Form Open Evening on Thursday 20th November, 6pm in the Main Hall.
You do not need to register to attend this event, but if you do have any queries, please contact us.
Why study Digital Software Development?
The digital revolution is transforming every industry—and it’s creating a wave of exciting career opportunities. As technology continues to evolve, employers across all sectors urgently need people with strong digital skills. That means real career choices, competitive salaries, and the chance to shape the future. Here in Dorset, the digital sector is booming. Over the past decade, the number of digital firms has tripled, contributing more than £1.7 billion to the local economy and supporting over 21,000 jobs. Nationally, two-thirds of UK jobs now require digital skills, yet nearly half of school leavers lack them, according to employers. This is where the Digital T Level comes in. It’s a powerful opportunity for students to gain the technical knowledge, practical experience, and industry insight they need to thrive in the modern workforce.
Entry requirements
- Equivalent to A levels: 5 passes at 4+ including Maths and English
- A strong interest in digital technology or computing
- A GCSE in Computer Science is useful but not essential
- Entry will be subject to a successful interview
Students must also be able to adapt to the workplace and take ownership of projects as part of their employer placement in Year 13.
For the latest information on application:
Structure of T Levels
T Levels are structured to give students a balanced mix of classroom learning (80%) and practical experience (20%), making them ideal for those who want to learn by doing and gain a head start in their chosen career path.
- Core Component Provides the required knowledge and understanding to succeed in the digital sector, covering the concepts, theories and skills required
- Occupational Specialism Ensures students have job-ready skills by providing in-depth training in a specific job role, combined with practical tasks and assessments designed by employers
- Industry Placement A minimum of 45 days in a real workplace, providing hands on experience and insight into professional environments.
- English, Maths and Digital Skills Embedded into the technical tasks to ensure students have the ability to apply academic skills in practical, job-related contexts.
Benefits and further opportunities
This course will be the equivalent of three A levels. Students will gain a T level certificate confirming their overall grade (Pass, Merit, Distinction, Distinction*), individual grades for the Core Component and Occupational Specialism and confirmation of completing their industry placement. This qualification is nationally recognised.
ADVANTAGES
- Focusing on providing both classroom learning and practical experience through industry placements.
- T Levels are designed in collaboration with employers to ensure that the skills taught are relevant to the industry.
- Experience gained from the extended work placement, a key feature of the course, will set students apart when applying for jobs or universities.
Progression
This qualification can open pathways to higher-level apprenticeships in digital roles; direct employment in skilled positions such as software developer, systems engineer, IT technician, or digital analyst; and a variety of university degrees.
FAQs
Interested in applying for 2026 entry?
Are you passionate about gaining real-world experience while studying? T Levels are an exciting new qualification that combine classroom learning with industry placements, giving you the skills employers are looking for.
If you’re interested in applying or just want to find out more, we’d love to hear from you!
Email our Sixth Form Enquiries Team
