CEMA Ltd, UK leading electrical engineering company, has partnered with Nottingham College to provide invaluable work experience to aspiring engineers as part of its T Level course.
Introduced by the government in 2020, T Levels were designed to revolutionise the technical education system in England. These two-year qualifications, equivalent to three A Levels, combine academic learning with practical industry experience. A key feature of T Levels is the 45-day industry placement, which equips students with hands-on skills essential for their future careers.
Pictured: T Level student Kaydon Lloyd at Nottingham College’s Highfields campus
CEMA, based in Netherfield, has successfully integrated four Nottingham College T Level students into its workforce. The company is now looking to further develop these students, recognising the value they bring to the business.
Ashley Smith, Principal Engineer at CEMA, has been working closely with the students. He said: “The students have shown exceptional eagerness, competency, and a positive attitude, surpassing our expectations. Their mentors have strongly recommended offering them apprenticeships or trainee positions to retain their talents.
He continues, “They have filled the team with energy and enthusiasm, demonstrating a keen eagerness to learn from senior staff, and their contributions have positively impacted team morale and productivity too.”
Engineering is a field that encompasses a broad and diverse range of skills, which continues to expand as innovative thinking drives the industry forward. “The industry requires more engineers to meet the demands and fresh perspectives to sustain ongoing innovation. Supporting the next generation is crucial as they are well-positioned to provide both,” explains Ashley.
CEMA specialises in building electrical systems ranging from small single pump panels to large motor control systems operating entire process areas. Each panel is bespoke and built to the design specifications provided by the engineering office. The T Level students have been actively involved in this process, performing tasks from drilling pre-marked metal gear plates for mounting equipment to wiring entire control systems under the guidance of their mentors. Their contributions have directly impacted projects now commissioned and operational at water treatment sites across the UK.
Ashley adds, “Our experience with Nottingham College T Level students has been overwhelmingly positive. Their successful integration into the workforce and the recommendation to progress them to apprenticeships underscores the value of hosting T Level students for work experience. We encourage other businesses to consider similar engagements to support the next generation of skilled workers and benefit from their fresh perspectives and innovative thinking.”
By blending theoretical learning with practical experience, T Levels provide students with a strong foundation for their future, whether they pursue employment, higher apprenticeships, or further education. In 2024, 74% of students who applied to university secured a place.
T Level student, Kaydon Lloyd, 17, has been working at CEMA as a panel technician for around six months, completing over 215 hours of work experience. He said: "I chose T Levels because of the benefits you get from a work placement. It’s given me real insight into working life, especially in the electrical industry. The hands-on experience has been invaluable, and the flexible working has helped me prepare for what’s next. I’m excited to be starting an apprenticeship with Severn Trent this September."
Whether you’re a business interested in offering a work placement or a student wanting to find out more about T Levels at Nottingham College, please visit: www.nottinghamcollege.ac.uk/t-levels.