Industry placement models for Agriculture, Environment and Animal Care

T Level industry placements are a vital component of the Agriculture, Environment and Animal Care curriculum. They provide students with practical experience to apply and develop the knowledge and skills gained in the classroom. Each placement must last a minimum of 315 hours (approximately 45 days) and can be flexibly structured to meet the needs of both employers and students.

Placement models
There are three main models for structuring placements:

1. Day release
Students attend the placement one or two days a week over an extended period.

This model works well when:
- Ongoing support or tasks are needed throughout the year
- The workplace is near the student’s college
- There is value in consistent involvement over time
Example: A student attends a horticultural nursery every Friday to support seasonal planting and maintenance over several months.

2. Block placement
Students work full-time over a block period, such as during college holidays.

This model works well when:
- Work is seasonal or varies by time of year
- Projects need focused input over a short timeframe
- The business is in a rural or remote location
Example: A student works for four weeks on a farm during lambing season, supporting feeding, cleaning, and record-keeping under supervision.

3. Mixed model
Combines day release and block placement to suit workload and learning needs.

This model works well when:
- A structured start is useful, followed by regular involvement
- Tasks vary in intensity through the year

Example: A student starts with a two-week full-time induction at an animal welfare centre, followed by one day per week during term time.

Flexible delivery approaches
To support accessibility and broaden opportunities, a number of flexible delivery models can be used:

Work taster activities: Up to 35 hours before the main placement to help students explore roles and settings.

Example: A student spends a few days shadowing staff at a veterinary practice, animal shelter and agricultural college before deciding on a placement.

Remote (hybrid) placement: Up to 20% of hours can be completed remotely if appropriate.

Example: A student completes animal welfare record-keeping and online research tasks remotely, with regular virtual check-ins.

Route-level placements: Students can gain experience across the broader occupational route.

Example: A student interested in animal care also gains insight into land management and biodiversity work.

Skills hubs or employer training centres*: Up to one-third of the placement can be in a controlled skills training environment.

Example: A student develops handling and care skills in a simulated environment before transitioning to work on-site with a zoo or kennel.

Small team projects*: Students work on real projects as a group with employer supervision.

Example: A team of students work with a local council to plan and plant a biodiversity-friendly community garden.

Part-time work: Paid part-time work may count toward the placement if it aligns with the T Level.

Example: A student employed at a garden centre agrees learning objectives with their provider, allowing their shifts to count toward the placement.

Multiple employers^: Placements split between two employers.

Example: A student spends part of their placement at a city farm and the rest at a rural livestock holding to compare animal care approaches in different settings.

Supply chain and networks^: Involves up to 3 employers in a supply chain or network.

Example: A student rotates between a farm, an agricultural machinery supplier, and a produce wholesaler to understand the farm-to-market supply chain.
* ^ cannot be used in combination with another approach of the same type

Example: Planning your placement
Your local school or college will work with you to design a placement model that works for your setting. They can:

• Help identify suitable projects and tasks
• Support supervision and mentoring plans
• Provide guidance on onboarding and legal checks
• Review the student’s progress and help resolve any issues

With flexible options and provider support, industry placements can add real value to your organisation while helping develop future talent.