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Staff Spotlight: Shane Edwards on T Levels

SHANE EDWARDS WEB 5

My advice would be to take every opportunity to learn about the different aspects of engineering covered within the T Level programme. The course is designed to give learners exposure to a wide range of engineering industries.

Shane Edwards, Curriculum Leader for T Level Engineering at NSCG

Could you tell us about your work on T Levels at NSCG?

As the Curriculum Leader for T Level Engineering at NSCG, I am responsible for leading and developing the Engineering T Level programme. The course covers both mechanical and electrical engineering, providing students with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to progress into engineering careers, apprenticeships, or higher education.

Could you tell us about what you did before you joined NSCG and what benefits your experiences bring to your role?

Before taking on my current role as Curriculum Leader for T Level Engineering at NSCG, I have as a Programme Lead in Engineering, as well as Head of Learning and Development in engineering too. I have also completed the Education and Training Foundation (ETF) Coaching and Mentoring T Level programme. My previous leadership, teaching, and engineering industry experience aligns well with the T Level programme, enabling me to provide students with relevant, industry focused learning and support.

What has been your proudest moment when supporting students or employers on their T Level Journey?

Supporting learners in securing career opportunities with employers and helping them progress into career pathways within the engineering sector. These progressions include apprenticeships and degree apprenticeships, using the skills and knowledge they have developed within the T Level.

Why do you feel the T Level pathway is a great option for students?

The T Level Engineering pathway is an excellent qualification as it provides learners with a broad understanding of engineering, covering both theory knowledge and practical skills. Students gain experience across a range of engineering topics. The industry placement is a key part of the programme, giving learners valuable experience and the opportunity to build links with employers. Overall, it is a fantastic route for anyone looking to explore different areas of engineering and progress into apprenticeships, higher education including university, or employment.

Typically where have your students progressed onto after successfully achieving the T Level Programme?

After completing the T Level, learners have a variety of opportunities open to them, and progress onto a range of pathways. The majority move on to apprenticeships. Many students also choose to progress to university or degree apprenticeships, while careers in the armed forces, particularly with the RAF and Royal Navy, are also popular pathways. 

If you have a student potentially interested in a T-Level, what would you suggest to them?

My advice would be to take every opportunity to learn about the different aspects of engineering covered within the T Level programme. The course is designed to give learners exposure to a wide range of engineering industries. As you progress through the course, you can then start to identify the areas of engineering that interest you most, which can then help guide your decisions about future opportunities, whether that be an apprenticeship, degree apprenticeship, university, or employment within the industry.