Some universities remain sceptical about T levels as a pathway into an engineering degree. Others think they outclass more traditional qualifications like A levels when it comes to applied learning. In this blog, Andrew Hambelton from Pearson, who will be delivering them in future, look for your views on how to make Engineering T levels work for everyone.
Earlier this year, we were pleased DfE announced that Pearson was awarded the contract to deliver generation two of the T Levels in Engineering, including:
- Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering and Manufacturing
- Engineering, Manufacturing, Processing and Control
- Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing.
These will be available for first teaching from September 2027 (subject to DfE and Ofqual approval), with first completions and therefore entry into HE from 2029 onwards.
As part of the contract, our qualifications team are currently reviewing potential updates and changes to the T Level programmes.
HE recognition
At the time of writing this article, we understand that over 85 UK universities accept the T Levels in Engineering for entry onto the first year of a related undergraduate degree, which is a tremendous achievement. However, some universities require students to also have A Level Maths alongside, which will not be possible for more than 99% of the cohort, given the size of the T Level programme. Furthermore, a few universities only consider it for entry on a case-by-case basis, and it is unclear what conditions must be met for acceptance and others require a student to start in the foundation year.
A lot of work has already been undertaken to support HE progression, including by DfE with their mapping of the existing maths content, Gatsby and the Engineering Professors Council. We want to build on this work and enhance students’ progression opportunities.
Working with the HE sector
We are keen to understand HE perspectives of the T Levels in Engineering and work with the HE sector to improve progression pathways. We are particularly keen to understand reason(s) for non-acceptance and what changes (if any) we can introduce to address this.
We would be grateful if you and/or a colleague could take a few minutes to complete this short survey to give your feedback on the T Levels in Engineering, ideally by 11pm 17 April 2026, though we will accept responses after then.
Please note that we may share anonymised headline findings with DfE, where relevant as part of discussions on potential changes to be introduced. In that instance, no shared comments will be attributed to specific individuals or institutions.
As part of the survey, you can also sign up to be involved in follow-up consultation.
This is your opportunity to help shape the second generation of the T Levels in Engineering. We are grateful for your input into this important issue. By working together, we can maximise students’ progression opportunities.
Andrew Hambelton is Stakeholder Engagement Manager: Technical and Professional Qualifications for Pearson UK.
