Lakes College at Lillyhall will offer new T-level qualifications from 2021.

T-levels, also known as T-Quals, are technical alternatives to A-levels, combining classroom theory, practical learning and an industry placement of at least 45 days (or 315 hours), allowing students to build knowledge and skills they will need in a workplace environment.

Lakes College is the only further education provider in the county chosen to provide all four T-level options from September 2021, covering digital, construction, education and childcare, and health and science.

T-levels will follow GCSEs and will be equivalent to three A-levels.

The two-year courses have been developed with employers and businesses so that the content meets the needs of industry and prepares students for work.

Principal Chris Nattress Lakes College said: “T-Levels form a very important part of Government policy for reform of technical education. We are both thrilled and excited to be in a position to offer T-levels to our students and the local area, and proud to be the only college in Cumbria to offer all four T-Level routes.”

Rachel Melton, careers and employability leader at the college, added: “In preparation for T-Level delivery, Lakes College are already delivering industry placements across many curriculum areas.

“Throughout the current academic year 50 students have already benefitted from enhance employer experience of a relevant subject specific placement with a local employer.”

Copeland MP Trudy Harrison welcomed the news.

She said: “A lot of students in my constituency attend Lakes College and T-Levels represent a much-needed, high-quality qualification to complement A-Levels, so more young people can access the education best suited to them whilst gaining skills that will better equip our workforce.”