Student Case Studies

T Level in Design, Surveying & Planning for Construction - Carla

Former School(s): Millais School

What led you to choosing this course?

I was drawn to the field of construction and had a particular interest in housing. Whether it was through interior design or understanding the entire process of building a house, I wanted to delve into it. I'm not someone who enjoys being confined to an office environment all the time, so I thought a T level would be ideal since it offers a balance of 80% theory-based learning and 20% industry placement in a work environment.

What do you enjoy most about your course?

I particularly enjoy the design aspects of the course, such as learning CAD (Computer-aided design). Additionally, the course covers a wide range of construction-related topics, including Building Technology, Health and Safety, and Sustainability, as well as Mathematics and Science. The diversity of the course material is something I find really engaging.

Have you done any work experience during this course?

Yes, I am currently placed with Complete Carpentry and Maintenance Ltd. Initially, I completed a whole week with them during the half term, and now I return to the site every Thursday. Throughout my time there, I've had the opportunity to see a wide range of tasks and make significant progress. During my initial week of experience, I was guided through the site by the Site Manager, where I learnt about the house and the project itself. I started with tasks like wallpaper stripping and progressed to using various tools and machinery.

Have you taken part in events/trips/competitions/exhibitions or had any speakers visit?

We had the opportunity to visit the London Build Expo. The expo featured numerous stalls and professionals from various sectors of the construction industry. It provided us with a valuable opportunity to network with different companies and gain insights into various areas and technologies within construction. Overall, it was a great way to broaden our understanding of the industry and explore potential career paths.

Why did you choose to study a T Level over an Apprenticeship?

Initially, I was very keen on completing an Apprenticeship. However, I realised that to excel in the construction industry, you need a solid understanding of the laws, regulations, and documentation that are integral to the field. That's why I opted for a T Level. It allowed me to gain essential knowledge while still maintaining a balance between work and education.

What are your future plans?

I plan to take a year to work full-time at my current work placement, gaining further experience in the field. After that, my goal is to attend Brighton University to pursue a degree and eventually a Master's in Architecture. Then hopefully become an Architect.