Exploring the benefits and costs of an industry placement
Hosting a T Level student on an industry placement gives your business access to new skills, fresh ideas and future talent, while supporting young people to start their careers in your industry.
It’s a straightforward way to help your sector grow – and your local school or college will support you at every stage.
Benefits for your business
Develop your future workforce
- Grow your own talent pipeline – identify young people who could become future apprentices or employees.
- Tackle skills shortages – students are developing the technical skills your sector needs right now.
- Test potential recruits – placements give you the chance to see how a student performs before hiring.
Bring in fresh thinking
- New perspectives – students bring up-to-date knowledge and digital skills.
- Energy and enthusiasm – many employers say placements reinvigorate teams and spark new ideas.
- Support for projects – an extra pair of hands can help you deliver short-term work or innovation projects.
Develop your people
- Mentoring and leadership opportunities – staff who supervise students build confidence and new skills.
- Positive team culture – supporting students can boost morale and pride in your workforce.
Strengthen your reputation
- Build local links – connect with schools, colleges and other employers in your community.
- Enhance your brand – show customers and partners that you invest in opportunity and skills.
- Be recognised as forward-thinking – being involved in T Levels highlights your commitment to the future of your industry.
If you’re thinking about introducing placements to colleagues or leadership, you can find advice on making the business case for industry placements here.
What it might cost
For most employers, the main cost is time – planning, induction and supervision. You’re not required to pay wages or cover travel or meal costs, though some employers choose to do so.
Typical costs to consider
| Area | What this involves | Support available |
| Time and planning | Planning the placement, agreeing tasks, supervising and providing feedback. | Your school or college will help with paperwork, planning and review meetings. |
| Training and supervision | Induction, health and safety, and mentoring. | Templates and guidance provided by your provider. |
| Optional costs | You may wish to offer travel, lunch or a small allowance. |
Some costs may be supported through the Employer Support Fund. Providers can advise. |
| Space and equipment | Workspace, IT access or uniform/PPE if required. | |
| Insurance and checks | Employers’ Liability cover (usually already in place) and DBS checks where required. | Your provider will confirm what’s needed and assist with arrangements. |
Support available
Your school or college will:
- help plan and structure the placement
- carry out checks and paperwork
- visit during the placement to ensure everything runs smoothly
- offer guidance on funding such as the T Level Employer Support Fund, which can help cover setup and supervision costs
Next steps
If you’re considering placements but need to discuss them internally first, start by:
- Sharing this page and the Making the business case for T Levels article with colleagues or managers.
- Contacting your local T Level provider to explore how placements could work in your organisation. Find your nearest T Level provider
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