We’re excited to announce that we’ll be hosting the Gatsby T Level Industry Co-location Project. Working with people across the North East, we understand the vital role work experience plays in securing your first tech role. In 2020 T Levels were introduced to provide students with an industry-focused education. Students can apply for one of the following Digital T-level pathways available: Digital Business Services; Digital Production, Design and Development; and Digital Support Services.
What is it?
During their placement, students will work in rotation with businesses on real in-house projects to develop their professional skills. We’re currently looking for businesses that would like to help deliver this experience by offering short-term placements for upcoming students and offering mentorship and guidance. Students will learn about their chosen industry and what is expected from them, and in return, businesses will have access to a talent pool of eager candidates and potential future employees.
“By engaging in the T-level Industry PlacementCo-Location Pilot, businesses gain direct access to a pipeline of talented, motivated students equipped with up-to-date knowledge and practical skills tailored to their industry,” says Jill McKinney, Director of Service Delivery.
She followed up by saying“This collaboration fosters innovation, addresses skills gaps, and enables companies to nurture and assess potential future employees, all while strengthening connections with local education providers.”
How will this be delivered? Why choose us?
Participating businesses will provide students with hands-on experience by allowing them to gain a foundational understanding of the digital industry. Placements will be delivered in 5-10 day periods so that pupils can experience multiple placements, highlighting the work available within the region while alleviating the pressure for companies. We have had success previously with both businesses and pupils alike.
Sally Taffs, Director of Holistic Projects, Enigma said"The T Level Colocation programme offers a transformative approach for businesses, particularly smaller ones, to support and nurture developing talent, it provides businesses with direct access to a growing pool of skilled individuals, all in a manageable and collaborative way. It’s a win-win opportunity that fosters innovation while addressing workforce needs with minimal strain on resources."
Francesca Joachim, T Level Student, said “In just a couple of weeks I have already broadened my understanding of the working environment and my skillset. It’s been great gaining hands-on experience that will be relevant to my undergraduate degree.”
Over the past decade, we have developed close connections with local authorities across the North East. Sunderland City Council, one of our delivery partners has already registered interest in the pilot.
Interest in this pilot
Naomi Hutchinson, Chief Innovation and Growth Officer, Sunderland City Council said "Sunderland City Council’s involvement in offering T Level industry placements as part of the co-location project reflects our commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering growth in our community. By collaborating with our partners, including Sunderland Software City, we can provide students with a richer, hands-on experience that bridges education and industry. This initiative not only equips young people with essential skills for the workforce but also strengthens the region's talent pipeline, benefiting the wider economy and ensuring that Sunderland remains a hub for innovation and opportunity”.
With our experience in tackling the skills gap for entry-level roles, we hope that businesses will join us in delivering an experience that will kick-start a future in tech to be passionate about.
To register your interest or any questions about participating in the T Level Industry Co-location Project, please email Jill McKinney, Director of Service Delivery, via Jill.McKinney@SunderlandSoftwareCity.com
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