Posted on Tuesday 14th October 2025
Alex Mottram, aged 17, is completing his T Level placement with Staffordshire County Council’s Cyber Team.
A Staffordshire student is showing how T Levels are helping young people gain real work experience and valuable skills for their future careers.
Seventeen-year-old Alex Mottram, who is studying for a T Level in Digital Support Services, is completing his industry placement with Staffordshire County Council’s Cyber Team.
Alex supports the team with cyber security operations, including detecting threats, responding to incidents, and helping to keep council systems safe and secure.
He said the placement is helping him put what he learns at college into practice.
Alex said:
“I want to get a job in cyber security in the future, so I decided that the T Level was the best way to go.
“I would absolutely recommend T Levels as an option, as I find it easier keeping up with one subject rather than three, and the placement is really useful for my future because it lets me gain key workplace skills that other students might not get.”
T Levels are a government-backed alternative to A levels and apprenticeships, combining classroom learning with an extended industry placement.
They are designed to give young people the technical knowledge and practical experience that employers are looking for.
Martin Murray, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“T Levels are a brilliant way for young people to gain hands-on experience while learning the skills that employers really need. Practical, work-based learning is just as valuable as academic study and, for many students, it’s a better route into the career they want.
“We’re proud to play our part in helping students like Alex build confidence, gain experience and take their first steps towards a rewarding future.”
Anyone interested in studying for a T Level is encouraged to act now, as places fill up quickly each year. Young people under 19 can get free, one-to-one advice on their next steps by contacting Staffordshire’s Careers Helpline on 01785 854125 or emailing careersparticipation@staffordshire.gov.uk
More information about T Levels, apprenticeships and other post-16 options is also available on the Staffordshire Jobs and Careers website on the ‘Options After School’ page.
If you feel that your business could host a T-Level Placement or you are interested in finding out more about this qualification route, please contact our T-Level Ambassadors Nick.Tucker@staffordshire.gov.uk or leo.wilsonweaver@staffordshire.gov.uk
Watch on YouTube: What is a T Level?