Student Services (Sixth Form)

All students studying a T Level programme must complete industry placements as part of the course.

WHAT TO KNOW

Mandatory - You must complete 45 days (315 hours) of placement work. This forms 20% of your course, with the rest (80%) in the classroom.
Flexible - Your placement can be a block (of several weeks in a row), day release (1 to 2 days a week) or a mix of both.
Real Work - You will be treated like a regular employee and is your chance to put what you've learnt in the classroom into practice.
Learning Goals - Before you start your placement, you will agree specific technical/employability goals with your teacher and employer.

The College uses a system called Canopy to manage industry placements. You are responsible for making sure your placement details are correct and your work hours are logged accurately.

If you need help using Canopy, contact the Placement Coordinator via email at placements.sixthform@windsor-forest.ac.uk or pop into Student Services.

Get a headstart on your placement.

Make sure you have:

✔️A Professional CV: Tailor it to the industry and company you're applying to. Highlight what you've learned in class so far, any relevant experience and your aspirations.

✔️Interview Practice: Many employers interview students first. Be ready to talk about why you chose your T Level and what you want to learn from your chosen business.

✔️The Right Gear: Check the dress code ahead of time to give the right first impression.

✔️Keep Track: Record your hours and progress in Canopy.

✔️Complete log book: Record your placement journey in the student log book.

A quick note on Financial Support: If travel/meal or workwear costs are an issue, speak to the Financial Support Team in Student Services. You can email them on financialsupport.sixthform@windsor-forest.ac.uk

A quick overview of T Level placements: Introduction Industry Placements

Preparing for your industry placement (external link) - the official guide from the Dept. of Education
An overview of how to prepare for working at your placement: Let's get ready for work!

Videos (external links to You Tube)

T Levels - industry placements - what students say (Runtime = 2 mins 49 secs)
T Levels - industry placements - what employers say (Runtime = 3 mins 04 secs)
What are T Levels? (Runtime = 6 mins 10 secs)
Government - Employer Stories (Runtime = 1 min)

We expect you to demonstrate professional standards while at College and your work placement.

Be Punctual: Arriving 5-10 minutes early shows you are reliable.
Stay Off Your Phone: Keep personal devices away except during designated breaks.
Proactive Learning: Ask questions if you need help and show enthusiasm for your tasks.
Professionalism: Use a polite tone and dressing appropriately for the specific workplace. Treat all colleagues with respect and listen to different viewpoints. Maintain the security of any sensitive company information you access. Do not post on your Socials.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to complete an industry placement for my T Level?

Yes. You must complete 315 hours in your approved industry placement to pass your T Level.

Do I have to find an employer myself?

While we can support looking for placements for you, finding your own puts you in control.

Will I be interviewed for my placement?

Usually, yes. Most employers interview to ensure you are a good fit. It's excellent practice for your future career.

Will I get paid while on my work placement?

Not legally required, though some employers may offer a wage or help with travel or lunch costs. Please do not expect payment from the employer.

What do I do if I'm unwell and can't go to work?

You must inform your employer and teacher (college) immediately.

Can I work from home?

Not all placements will be suitable for home working. If it meets your learning goals, up 20% of your hours can be remote (50% for digital T Levels).

Is there help with travel, meal or workwear costs?

If you are in receipt of a bursary, you may be entitled for additional financial support. If you are not in receipt of a bursary the college might be able to help with a financial contribution to travel and other costs. Contact the Student Finance team for more information at studentfinance.sixthform@windsor-forest.ac.uk

Safeguarding & Prevent - Industry Placements

It is important to us that you feel safe while you are at college, this includes during an industry placement. If at any point during your work placement you are worried about yourself or someone you know, you can contact the Safeguarding Team or the Placement Coordinator on the details below:

Safeguarding Team - 01753 443850

safeguarding.sixthform@windsor-forest.ac.uk

Jenny Villamayor - Placement Coordinator - 01753 443853

placements.sixthform@windsor-forest.ac.uk

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