T Level in Digital Production, Design and Development

T Levels are Level 3 technical qualifications introduced in England in 2020 to provide a high-quality alternative to A Levels and apprenticeships. They are developed in collaboration with employers and combine:

Classroom learning (around 80% of the course).

Industry placement (a minimum of 315 hours).

Occupational specialism assessments aligned with professional standards.

A T Level is equivalent to three A Levels and attracts UCAS tariff points, enabling progression into university, higher apprenticeships, or employment.

Overview of the Digital Production, Design & Development T Level

The Digital Production, Design & Development (DPDD) T Level is aimed at students seeking careers in software development, digital design, and IT solutions. It develops both theoretical knowledge and hands-on digital skills, addressing industry demand for software engineers, web developers, and IT professionals.

It is one of the most popular digital T Levels, with more than 2,000 entrants in 2024/25. Its relevance is heightened by the rapid growth of the UK’s digital economy and the increasing need for skilled technical specialists.

Subject Content

The core curriculum covers:

• Digital analysis – understanding user needs, defining requirements, and planning solutions.

  
  

• Programming and coding – applying industry-standard languages and frameworks.

  
  

• Problem solving in digital systems – designing and evaluating solutions to real-world challenges.

  
  

• Data and digital environments – data structures, algorithms, databases, and cloud technologies.

  
  

• Legislation and regulation – GDPR, cybersecurity, intellectual property, and professional codes of conduct.

  
  

• Business context – how digital systems support organisations and the wider economy.

  
  

• Testing and quality assurance – ensuring functionality, security, and usability.

  
  

Students then specialise in the occupational specialism of Software Development, which focuses on:

• Writing, testing, and maintaining code.

  
  

• Developing user-friendly digital products.

  
  

• Applying agile and project management methodologies.

  
  

• Using collaborative tools and version control (e.g. Git).

  
  

Industry Placement

Students complete a minimum of 315 hours (about 45 days) with an employer in a digital or IT setting. Placement providers may include software companies, IT consultancies, in-house IT teams, or digital design firms.

Benefits of placement include:

• Applying coding and design knowledge to live projects.

  
  

• Experiencing professional tools, workflows, and team collaboration.

  
  

• Building a portfolio of real-world work.

  
  

• Understanding client needs and business impact.

  
  

Assessment

Assessment for the DPDD T Level includes:

• Core assessments – written exams and an employer-set project to test understanding of the digital environment, tools, and practices.

  
  

• Occupational specialism assessment – a synoptic project where students plan, build, and test a digital solution to meet client requirements.

  
  

• Placement evaluation – demonstrating workplace competence, professional behaviours, and application of skills.

Final grades range from Pass to Distinction, with UCAS points awarded accordingly.

Progression Routes

On completion, students can progress to:

• Higher Education: Degrees in computer science, software engineering, cybersecurity, data science, or digital media.

  
  

• Higher or Degree Apprenticeships: Software developer, digital solutions specialist, data technician, or network engineer apprenticeships.

  
  

• Employment: Junior software developer, web developer, IT technician, digital support specialist, or QA tester roles.

Transferable Skills

The qualification also develops a wide range of transferable skills, including:

• Problem Solving and Analytical Thinking – breaking down complex problems into workable solutions.

  
  

• Communication and Collaboration – working in agile teams and engaging with clients.

  
  

• Project Management – planning, prioritising, and delivering projects on time.

  
  

• Adaptability – responding to new technologies and industry trends.

  
  

• Digital Literacy – advanced technical competence with tools and systems widely used across industries.

These skills are not only relevant to the digital sector but also valuable across finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and creative industries where digital solutions are integral.

Conclusion

The Digital Production, Design & Development T Level equips learners with the technical and professional skills required for a rapidly evolving digital workforce. By combining coding, system design, and problem-solving with industry placements, it provides a strong foundation for both higher education and employment.

As one of the fastest-growing T Levels, it directly addresses the UK’s digital skills gap and offers learners a pathway into well-paid and future-focused careers in technology.