Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing - T Level

If you're passionate about understanding how things are designed, manufactured and how they work, this T Level in Design and Development for Engineering and Manufacturing will provide you with the knowledge, technical skills and practical experience needed to progress into a career in engineering, an apprenticeship or higher education.

This two-year qualification combines classroom learning with hands-on engineering activities and industry experience, helping you develop the skills and professional behaviours required by employers across the engineering and manufacturing sectors.

During your Core year, you'll focus primarily on the core engineering principles and theories that underpin the industry. You'll explore a range of subjects, including mechanical and electrical engineering, engineering materials, material properties, 3D CAD modelling and 2D technical drawings. You'll also learn how engineers communicate ideas through technical drawings, design briefs and planning documents, while developing your ability to use precision measurement instruments accurately.

In your Specialism year, around 60–70% of your learning will be practical, allowing you to apply your knowledge in a workshop and manufacturing environment. You'll develop skills in machining using lathes, milling machines and drilling equipment, alongside CAD/CAM technologies such as laser cutting, CNC machining and 3D additive manufacturing. You'll also gain experience in welding and manufacturing components to accurate engineering tolerances, developing your confidence in using tools, machinery and manufacturing processes safely and effectively.

Throughout the course, you'll develop your problem-solving, design, communication and project-planning skills while learning how to turn engineering ideas into physical products and components. You'll also complete a substantial industry placement of at least 315 hours, gaining valuable real-world experience and an insight into the expectations and opportunities within the engineering profession.

Building plans on a table
  • What you will study

    You will develop the technical knowledge, design skills and professional understanding needed to work within the engineering and manufacturing sectors, including:

    • Working within the engineering and manufacturing sectors
    • Engineering and manufacturing: past, present and future
    • Essential mathematics for engineering and manufacturing
    • Essential science for engineering and manufacturing
    • Materials and their properties
    • Mechanical principles
    • Electrical and electronic principles
    • Mechatronics and engineering control systems
    • 2D CAD technical drawings and engineering representations
    • 3D CAD modelling and design
    • Health and safety principles and requirements
    • Quality management and quality control
    • Business, commercial and financial awareness
    • Professional responsibilities, attitudes and behaviours
    • Stock and asset management
    • Continuous improvement and manufacturing efficiency
    • Project and programme management

    Communicating engineering ideas through design briefs, technical drawings and planning documents

  • Entry Requirements

    You will need:

    • Grade 5 or above in GCSE maths (higher tier)
    • Grade 4 or above in GCSE English
    • Grade 4 or above in two GCSE Science subject
    • Grade 4 or above in any other GCSE
  • Assessment

    Assessment is designed to reflect the skills and knowledge required by employers and includes:

    In the Core year:

    • Two external Examinations
    • An Employer Set Project (18.5 hours over 4 days)

    In the Specialism year:

    • Occupational Specialism project (34 hours over 8 days)

    You'll receive an overall grade of Pass, Merit, Distinction or Distinction* and gain a nationally recognised qualification that carries UCAS Tariff points for those wishing to progress to higher education.

    The T Level is also recognised by universities and employers across the UK, giving you the skills, experience and qualifications needed to take your next step with confidence.

  • Moving Forward

    This qualification opens the door to a wide range of opportunities, including:

    • Higher apprenticeships
    • University and degree-level study
    • Employment within the Engineering sector
  • Duration

    This is a two year full-time programme, starting in September each year and finishing in June/July.

    You will spend around 14 hours in the classroom and workshops each week. You will need to study independently for around 6 hours a week to keep up with the demands of the course.

George

“I really enjoyed using the relevant technologies in my course, such as the VR headsets and the much more relaxing atmosphere of the College. 
My teachers made sure that we understood the material before moving on to the next part of the curriculum. Also our T Level Officer did a great job at securing our whole class work experience so we could complete our course. 
With my T Level I am now moving onto an Electronic and Computer Systems Engineering BEng (Hons) at London South Bank University and will be starting this September!”
T Level in Digital Production, Design and Development

Annie

“Having decided sixth form wasn't for me, I looked at T Levels and realised the opportunity to study whilst also getting practical experience in how the business world works was more suitable.”
T Level in Management and Administration

JJ

"My experience with studying a T Level has been fantastic. I've learnt that learning can exist with the real world and with this I know what I want to do and I can confidently step into my future career."
T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning

Events

Student Support

Starting college can be a giant leap if you have just finished school or are returning to education after a few years. We will make this transition as easy as possible, providing all the support you need to settle in

Financial Support

We are committed to supporting students in order for them to overcome any financial barriers to learning.

Term Dates

Key term dates and opening times