Across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, employers are playing an important role in preparing young people for the world of work. Through T Level industry placements, businesses help develop future talent, share industry expertise and support the next generation entering their sector.
At The City of Stoke-on-Trent Sixth Form College, employer partnerships are built around three simple principles: Begin, Belong and Beyond.
Begin: Starting Careers with Purpose
For many students, an industry placement is their first experience of a professional workplace. It is where classroom learning connects with real projects, responsibilities and career opportunities.
Employers provide valuable insight into their sector, helping students develop practical skills, confidence and an understanding of workplace expectations. In return, organisations benefit from the enthusiasm, fresh perspectives and developing skills students bring to their teams.
Whether hosting a placement for the first time or building on an established programme, employers of all sizes can make a meaningful contribution to local talent development.
Belong: Building Connections and Confidence
The most successful placements are about more than completing required hours. They help students develop a sense of belonging within a professional environment and contribute in meaningful ways.
By welcoming students into their teams, employers support the development of communication, teamwork, problem-solving and professional skills that cannot be fully developed in the classroom alone.
Digital Software Development student Mohsin experienced this during his placement with Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce: “My placement has given me the opportunity to apply the skills from my Digital Software Development T Level to real projects, including website development, automation and system integration. Working with industry tools and solving real-world challenges has helped me build confidence, strengthen my problem-solving skills and gain valuable experience in a professional environment.”
Beyond: Creating Lasting Impact
The benefits of an industry placement extend well beyond the placement itself.
Students return to college with stronger employability skills, greater confidence and a clearer understanding of their future aspirations. Employers contribute directly to workforce development, strengthen links with education and help address future skills needs within their sector.
The value of these partnerships is reflected in the experiences of employers across the region. Glen Manby, Interim Head of IT and Data at Novus Property Solutions, said:
“We were impressed with their professionalism and energy. Supporting T Level students not only helps their career development but also boosts our team’s productivity.”
Through T Level industry placements, employers help students begin their careers, find where they belong and take meaningful steps beyond the classroom towards their future professions.
Invest in the Workforce of Tomorrow
Employers play a vital role in developing the skills, knowledge and confidence of the next generation. By hosting a T Level industry placement, your organisation can make a lasting impact while helping build a stronger future workforce for Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.
To find out more, visit the College’s employer partnerships page at https://www.stokesfc.ac.uk/employer-partnerships/ or contact the Industry Placement Team at industryplacements@sfc.potteries.ac.uk.
