T Level graduate — Nylah Achampong

Nylah studied a T Level in Construction at La Retraite Sixth Form in South London, which enabled her to progress to the Level 4 Construction Design and Build Technician Apprenticeship, as she looks to become a design manager

Why did you decide to pursue a T Level course?

I originally wanted to pursue a career in architecture, but didn't want to go through the route of having to study A-level maths and art.

When I was looking into studying at La Retraite, I came across their T Levels page and saw they offered a T Level in Construction. Though unfamiliar with T Levels at the time, my parents encouraged me to give it a try.

What did you learn during your T Level?

While studying the T Level Construction, I learned about the various laws and legislation involved in construction projects, as well as health and safety procedures.

The programme provided a comprehensive insight into the built environment and the intricacies of project planning and delivery.

I realised that construction and architecture extend beyond the aesthetics, encompassing sustainability, feasibility, and functionality. One of my favourite aspects was producing scale drawings for their crucial accuracy.

I have also gained knowledge about the designs of buildings by looking at plans, elevations and sections. I became proficient in using Revit to consolidate design data efficiently.

The surveying aspect of construction involved gaining insights into the various types of surveys conducted on a site before construction begins. These surveys are essential for understanding critical site information, such as soil and ground conditions, boundaries, and other relevant factors.

How was the T Level course structured?

In the first year, four teachers each specialised in different aspects of the construction course, ensuring comprehensive coverage without any overlap.

Each topic was thoroughly taught before moving on to the next, with regular practice assessments to gauge my progress.

The second year focused on surveying, while streamlining our learning process.

The course also involved an industrial placement.

How did you find studying the course?

At first, I was unsure how it would go as it was a new course, but as time passed, I started to enjoy it more and gained a lot of knowledge while on this journey.

The highlight was undoubtedly the industry placement, providing invaluable exposure to a professional work environment.

How did you secure your industry placement?

I secured my placement with the Berkeley Group after their representative visited our school and expressed an interest in taking on T Level students.

I then applied and got invited to interview at one of their head offices. I successfully passed the interview stage and was then able to start my placement.

Where did your industry placement involve and what were your main duties?

I worked on their Oval Village Project, where I had the opportunity to collaborate with their technical and commercial team.

With the technical team, I cross checked and marked up sets of drawings highlighting any discrepancies, as well as completing an accommodation schedule, checking it against the formation architects' drawings. I looked for specification data sheets for some internal finishes and produced technical submittal forms to be issued for approval.

During my time with commercial, I completed a tender comparison, where I viewed each company's rates for items and calculated the final value. I made a breakdown summary to show the values for each company and then cross-referenced the information with the exact quantity of each item required.

What skills did you develop during the placement?

I honed my proficiency in Microsoft Excel and enhanced my communication and time management skills through daily interactions and deadline-driven tasks.

What were the highlights of the work experience?

Meeting supportive colleagues, participating in site visits, witnessing project progress, and integrating new knowledge into my coursework were standout experiences.

What do you plan to do next?

As you have to complete a work placement as part of your T Levels, I was able to get a placement with a great company where I had the opportunity to be shortlisted for their technical apprenticeship programme. I was invited down to an assessment centre with other candidates, and luckily I was offered the role.

How well has the T Level prepared you for an apprenticeship?

I think it has prepared me really well, as the placement I had to complete let me gain some experience and knowledge of what construction working life is really like. I got to incorporate this knowledge into my coursework and assessments.

The blend of classroom and on-site learning broadens your skillset and prepares you for your future endeavours.

Before I studied a T Level, I did not know about the apprenticeship route and that's something I'm very grateful for. Its balanced approach, providing industry connections, mentorship, and professional insights will be crucial for succeeding in an apprenticeship.

Find out more

• Explore whether a T Level course is for you.
• Consider a construction apprenticeship.
• Read about the latest T Level courses at GOV.UK.