Wiltshire College & University Centre is calling on businesses across the region to help young people gain valuable workplace experience as its Big Placement Pledge returns for a second year.
The 13-week campaign encourages employers of all sizes to offer industry placements to T-Level students, helping them develop practical skills and confidence while giving businesses the opportunity to nurture future talent.
During the campaign, Wiltshire College & University Centre will share employer stories, student experiences and behind-the-scenes insights from businesses across Wiltshire. Employers will also be invited to breakfast networking sessions, campus tours, webinars and question-and-answer sessions designed to explain how placements work and make it easier for organisations to get involved.
Ann Simpson, Work Placement Team Leader at Wiltshire College & University Centre, said: “The success of last year’s Big Placement Pledge showed just how much employers value investing in future talent. Industry placements are at the heart of T-Levels, giving students the opportunity to develop real workplace skills, build confidence and gain experience that simply can’t be replicated in the classroom.
“At the same time, employers benefit from enthusiastic young people who bring fresh ideas, new perspectives and a genuine willingness to learn. Whether you’re a small business or a large organisation, hosting a T-Level student is a fantastic opportunity to support the next generation while helping to build your future workforce.”
Over the next 13 weeks, the campaign will cover every stage of the T-Level placement journey. This will include addressing common misconceptions about placements, helping employers become placement-ready and introducing some of the students currently studying at the college. It will also highlight successful partnerships with employers and celebrate the organisations already supporting young people across the county.
A dedicated Open Doors week will give businesses the chance to visit college campuses, meet the team responsible for T-Levels and find out first-hand how industry placements operate.
Every T-Level includes a minimum of 315 hours of industry placement. This allows students to apply their classroom learning in a real workplace and develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours sought by employers.
Wiltshire College & University Centre recorded a 100% T-Level pass rate last year, supported by the businesses and organisations providing placements. With more students choosing T-Levels for the coming academic year, the college is hoping that additional employers will join the campaign.
Businesses interested in supporting the Big Placement Pledge can visit www.wiltshire.ac.uk or contact Wiltshire College & University Centre’s Business Relationship team.
