Toni-Leigh completed a T Level in Quantity Surveying and Design at Middlesbrough College and now works as a safety, health and environmental (SHE) apprentice at EDF's Hartlepool Power Station
I wanted a qualification that combined classroom learning with practical experience. The T Level enabled me to gain industry experience alongside academic study, which was really appealing.
I've always wanted to work in construction, and opportunities to combine theory with hands-on learning can be limited. The T Level gave me the best of both worlds and helped keep me motivated throughout my studies.
My dad and uncles all work in construction, so I grew up seeing the value of hard work and the opportunities available in the industry.
My interest developed further when I studied a Level 2 BTEC in construction during my GCSEs.
I also had a teacher who encouraged me by arranging college visits and industry days, which helped reinforce my ambition to build a career in the sector.
Although starting a relatively new qualification felt daunting at first, I quickly found that the course was well organised and supported by fantastic teaching staff. They helped me overcome challenges and stay focused, particularly during one of the most demanding periods of my life. Looking back, completing the course is something I'm incredibly proud of.
The industry placement was undoubtedly the highlight. It allowed me to:
Having that experience gave me a real advantage when applying for jobs and apprenticeships.
The placement - which for T Levels is around 45 days - gave me valuable insight into how workplaces operate and helped me develop skills that can't always be learned in a classroom. I improved my communication, teamwork and problem-solving abilities, while also gaining confidence in a professional environment.
Networking was another major benefit. Through my placements, I built connections with professionals who offered advice, support and opportunities that have helped shape my career path.
The biggest skill I developed was resilience. During my first year, I balanced college studies with a weekend job at McDonald's. In my second year, I faced an even greater challenge when I was due to give birth just a month before my exams.
Although I was advised that I could defer my studies, I was determined to graduate alongside my peers. It wasn't easy, but I adapted, persevered and achieved my goal.
Graduating with my five-month-old son by my side was one of my proudest moments. That experience taught me that resilience isn't about avoiding challenges - it's about overcoming them and moving forward.
After completing my T Level, I secured an SHE apprenticeship with EDF at Hartlepool Power Station within nuclear generation.
The knowledge I gained during my T Level has proven incredibly useful in my current role. Even subjects that didn't initially seem directly relevant have helped me in practice.
For example, I learned computer-aided design (CAD) modelling as part of my course and now use those skills when interpreting Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations (DSEAR) drawings on site.
The qualification gave me a strong foundation and helped me hit the ground running in my apprenticeship.
I'm focused on completing my diploma and gaining as much experience as possible in health and safety. I enjoy the variety that the profession offers and the opportunity to work across different sectors.
In the future, I'd love to work abroad or on offshore rigs, which would allow me to broaden my experience and take on new challenges.
Long-term, I aspire to move into a leadership position where I can support, mentor, and inspire others, just as I've been supported throughout my career.
I’d definitely recommend studying T Levels. The qualification gives you the opportunity to combine academic learning with real workplace experience, which is invaluable when starting your career.
The qualification is challenging, but the experience, confidence and professional skills you gain make it worthwhile.
Embrace every opportunity that comes your way and make the most of the industry placement, because that's where you'll learn some of the most important lessons and build connections that can help shape your future.
