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Celebrating students achievements and employer partnerships over T Levels Week

Last week we proudly participated in T Levels Week, joining the nationwide celebration of technical education and the transformative impact of strong partnerships between education and industry. 

Throughout the week, we showcased the inspiring journeys of our T Level students, the dedication of our staff, and the invaluable contribution of our employer partners who make industry placements possible. 

Celebrating Student Success 

This year, 85 DCG students completed their T Levels across seven subject areas, with an impressive 91% achieving Merit or above and a quarter earning Distinctions. 

  • In Science, students achieved 100% Merit or above for the second consecutive year, securing places at top universities and careers in competitive fields. 
  • In Construction, 50% of students received Distinctions, double the previous year’s results, confirming DCG’s recognition as the East Midlands Lead Construction Technical Excellence College. 
  • In Education & Early Years, 60% achieved Distinctions, reflecting both quality teaching and strong partnerships with local nurseries and schools. 

Student Highlights 

  • Milly: completed a T Level in Childcare with Distinction, now studying at the University of Derby and continuing part-time at Alvaston Infant and Nursery School. 
  • Priya: T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning, now progressing her career with Kier Construction while studying Quantity Surveying at Sheffield Hallam University. 
  • Martinus: completed T Level in Design and Development, now working with Rolls-Royce Nuclear after securing multiple apprenticeship offers. 
  • Illia: T Level Engineering student, now at UCL studying Electrical Engineering. 
  • Kayden: Digital Production T Level graduate, now at University of Brighton studying Computer Science following a placement at Bloc Digital. 

These stories represent just a few of the many successful progressions from DCG T Levels into higher education, apprenticeships, and direct employment. 

Three people wearing blue uniforms, two T Level students and their employer.

Partnership Power: Employers Driving Success 

Employers across Derbyshire have played a central role in T Levels Week, demonstrating the mutual benefits of industry placements. 

  • University Hospitals of Derby and Burton NHS Foundation Trust (UHDB) welcomed T Level students across clinical and non-clinical roles. Nursing Associate Remie Jackson said:
    “Supporting the future workforce is one of the most rewarding parts of my role. These students bring fresh perspectives and energy. It’s inspiring to watch them grow in confidence and capability.” 
  • Taudevin Engineering Limited continues to provide placements for T Level Engineering students. Business Manager Steve Goss commented:
    “This is the most rewarding and value-adding source of enthusiastic and competent potential engineering talent available.” 
  • L & B Electrical, based in Alvaston, have partnered with DCG to welcome T Level students Ollie and Charlotte. Co-Director Tom Carter said:
    “T Levels give us the chance to meet young people with strong technical foundations and passion for the trade. Our partnership with DCG keeps us connected to the latest training and ensures students gain hands-on experience on real projects.” 

 Reflecting on T Levels Week 

Representing around 10% of the national T Level cohort, Derby College students and staff have been at the forefront of the celebration, highlighting the College’s leadership role in advancing technical education. 

“T Levels Week gave us the opportunity to shine a spotlight on our incredible students and the employers who make these pathways possible,” said Brian Malyan, Vice Principal for Technical and Vocational Education.  

“The achievements we’ve celebrated this week show how technical education is changing lives and shaping the future workforce of Derby and beyond.” 

Looking Ahead 

As T Levels Week draws to a close, DCG is already building on the momentum, expanding its employer partnerships and supporting the next generation of students in Science, Digital, Education, Construction, Health, and Engineering. 

Employers who want to play a role in shaping the future workforce are encouraged to partner with Derby College by offering T Level industry placements.