Tiffany Timothy, T Level Student

Tiffany Timothy, 17, from London, is studying a Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction T Level specialising in Civil Engineering at La Retraite RC Girls School. As part of her course, she completed a 45-day industry placement with Overbury PLC. 

What inspired you to choose a T Level?

I knew I was interested in construction and design, but I wasn't completely sure which career path I wanted to follow. My school was no longer offering the A Level course I originally wanted to do, so I started looking at other options and discovered T Levels.

What appealed to me was the combination of theory and industry experience. It felt like a course that could help me explore the industry while developing practical skills and gaining real experience with employers.

What have you enjoyed most about studying a T Level?

One of the best things has been getting exposure to the construction industry and learning about the many different careers available within it.

Before starting my T Level, I had no idea how many career opportunities the industry had to offer. The course has helped me understand the different roles available and given me a clearer idea of where my interests lie.

I also enjoy the practical side of the course. Working on projects with classmates has helped me develop communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills while applying what we've learned in lessons.

Tell us about your industry placement.

My placement with Overbury PLC gave me the opportunity to work alongside industry professionals, visit live construction sites and learn about a wide range of careers in the built environment. 

As the placement ran over 45 days, it meant that I had lots of different experiences, and got to explore lots of different parts of the industry.

One of my favourite parts was being based on site and seeing projects progress over time. I also had the opportunity to speak with people working in roles I was interested in and learn more about their career journeys.

At the end of my placement, I delivered a presentation about my experience to members of the team. That pushed me out of my comfort zone and was a great confidence boost.

What has been the most surprising thing about completing your T Level?

For me, it has opened doors and opportunities that I never knew existed. 

Before starting my T Level, I wasn't aware of the different routes into construction or the variety of jobs available across the sector. Through my placement and the people I've met along the way, I've gained a much better understanding of the industry and the opportunities within it.

It's also given me opportunities to meet employers, build connections and share my experiences with others considering their next steps.

What skills have you developed during your T Level?

The course has helped me build confidence in a professional environment. Going on placement allowed me to interact with industry professionals, ask questions and see how classroom learning is applied in the workplace.

I've also developed skills in teamwork, communication and presenting. Taking part in practical projects and working collaboratively with others has helped me become more confident in sharing ideas and contributing to group work.

Is your T Level what you expected?

I knew it would be a technical course, but I didn't realise how much information and learning would be involved. It requires good organisation and time management, but it's also incredibly rewarding because you're building knowledge that can be directly applied in the workplace.

The industry placement has been a particularly valuable part of the course because it brings classroom learning to life and helps you see how your studies connect to real careers.

What are your plans after completing your T Level?

I would like to progress onto a degree apprenticeship in Construction Management.

Long term, I'd love to build a career in construction project management because it combines technical knowledge, teamwork and overseeing projects from start to finish.

What would you say to someone considering their options?

You don't need to have every step of your future planned out straight away. 

For me, a T Level gave me the chance to gain practical experience, build my confidence and learn directly from employers while continuing my education.

It's a great way to explore career opportunities and gain experience that can help you take your next step.  

As Tiffany’s journey shows, a T Level can open doors to new experiences, professional networks and exciting career pathways. Explore your options and see where a T Level could take you. 

Explore training options for digital skills, including essential and specialist digital skills training, routes into work and other technical education options through the UK government’s jobs and skills website to discover where your next step could take you.  

If you’re not sure about your next steps and need support, advice or someone to talk things through with, the National Careers Service can help. Please visit: https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk