What does a typical T Level week look like?
Quick answer
Across the two years, roughly 80% of a T Level is in the classroom or workshop and about 20% is on an industry placement. A normal week mixes theory lessons (the core), hands-on practical work (the occupational specialism), project work and tutorials — plus maths and English if you don't already have them. Placement time usually comes in blocks.The overall shape
A T Level is a full-time, two-year programme — a bigger commitment than a single course, roughly the size of three A Levels. Most of your time is spent learning at your college or school, with a substantial industry placement woven in (at least around 315 hours, sometimes more).
What a week can look like
- Core knowledge lessons — the theory and concepts behind your occupational area, taught much like an A Level.
- Practical / workshop sessions — developing the hands-on skills of your occupational specialism.
- Project work — applying your knowledge to realistic, employer-style briefs.
- Tutorials and support — progress reviews, careers guidance, and preparation for your placement.
- Maths and English — if you haven't yet achieved them, you'll keep working towards them alongside.
When the placement happens
Colleges arrange placements differently: some run them as blocks (a stretch of full-time weeks with an employer), others as regular day-release across the year. Either way you're doing genuine, meaningful work in your field — not just watching.
Compared with A Levels, a T Level week has more practical work and real workplace time. Compared with an apprenticeship, you're mostly in the classroom and not employed on a wage. See the full comparison ›
📊 Explore the T Level pathways