Wigan and Leigh College hosted a party to thank local employers for taking on T-level students
A celebration event was held by Wigan and Leigh College recognising its important new partnerships which allow T-level students find placements with local firms
Local firms have been recognised for their commitment to T-level industry placements at a celebration event hosted by Wigan and Leigh College.
The college welcomed employers, partners and stakeholders to a T-level Employer Breakfast at The Wheel Restaurant, celebrating organisations that are helping to shape the next generation of talent.
Both bosses and students shared first-hand experiences of the impact placements have on confidence, skills development and career progression.
Speakers included representatives from Galliford Try, Deb's Diamonds and Citizens Advice, alongside current T-level students who reflected on how industry placements have supported their personal and professional growth.
One of the most inspiring stories came from Deb Foley, owner of Deb's Diamonds, who spoke about T-level education student Rose.
Deb first knew Rose as a three-year-old child in her care before welcoming her back years later as a T-level student pursuing a career in early years education.
Describing the experience as a "full-circle moment", Deb spoke of her pride in seeing Rose grow into a confident and capable practitioner, building strong relationships with children and parents and becoming a valued member of the team.
Her story highlighted the lasting impact industry placements can have on students, employers and local communities.
The event also showcased the value of placements across different sectors.
Galliford Try and T-level civil engineering student Will shared how industry placements are helping to build the future construction workforce, including through experience on major local developments such as The Fettlers in Wigan, future home of the town's new Market Hall.
Aspiring quantity surveyor Will explained how the placement is helping him take meaningful steps towards his chosen career.
Meanwhile, Citizens Advice praised the professionalism and enthusiasm of its legal services students, highlighting the contribution they make in supporting clients while developing valuable workplace skills and confidence.
Ms Dawe said: "Today was about thanking and celebrating the employers who make T-levels possible. Every industry placement gives a young person the opportunity to build confidence, develop valuable skills and gain the real-world experience needed to take their next step into employment.
"The stories we heard this morning were a powerful reminder of the difference our employer partners make. From supporting ambitious young people like Will to pursue careers in construction, to Rose's remarkable journey at Deb's Diamonds and students making a positive impact through Citizens Advice, every example showed the life-changing opportunities industry placements can create.
"We are incredibly grateful to all of our employer partners for opening their doors, sharing their expertise and helping our students build successful futures."
Ms Dawe also highlighted the strength of employer partnerships across the region and the shared commitment to creating opportunities for young people while helping to address future skills needs.
T-levels are two-year technical qualifications developed with employers and include a substantial industry placement, giving students valuable workplace experience alongside their studies.
The Employer Breakfast formed part of Wigan and Leigh College's wider commitment to strengthening links between education and industry, ensuring learners develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours needed to succeed in their chosen careers.
As the college continues to lead the way in technical education, employers are being encouraged to join its growing network of industry partners helping to shape the workforce of the future.