T Level in Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering & Manufacturing

T Levels are Level 3 technical qualifications introduced in England as part of education reforms to provide a high-quality alternative to A Levels and apprenticeships. They combine:

Classroom-based study (about 80% of the programme).

Industry placement of at least 315 hours (around 45 days).

Occupational specialisms that ensure learners develop competence in specific technical fields.

Each T Level is equivalent to three A Levels and carries UCAS tariff points, supporting progression into higher education, apprenticeships, or employment.

Overview of the Maintenance, Installation and Repair T Level

The Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering & Manufacturing T Level equips students with the technical and practical skills needed to maintain and repair engineering systems and equipment across industries.

It focuses on diagnosing faults, carrying out maintenance, and ensuring systems operate efficiently and safely. With nearly 900 entrants in 2024/25, it is one of the leading T Levels in the engineering sector, reflecting employer demand for skilled technicians.

Subject Content

The core curriculum provides knowledge in:

• Health and Safety – safe working practices, risk assessment, and compliance with regulations.

  
  

• Materials, Science and Mathematics – principles underpinning engineering processes.

  
  

• Engineering Design and Processes – understanding systems, schematics, and technical drawings.

  
  

• Maintenance Principles – preventative, predictive, and corrective maintenance.

  
  

• Fault Diagnosis and Repair – identifying, testing, and resolving equipment issues.

  
  

• Digital Tools and Data – using diagnostic technologies, sensors, and monitoring systems.

  
  

• Sustainability and Efficiency – ensuring systems are energy-efficient and environmentally responsible.

  
  

Learners specialise in occupational areas such as:

• Light and Electric Vehicle Maintenance

  
  

• Mechanical Engineering

  
  

• Electrical and Electronic Engineering

  
  

• Mechatronics

  
  

This ensures learners develop applied skills relevant to their chosen pathway.

Industry Placement

Learners complete a minimum 315-hour placement in engineering or manufacturing settings. Placement providers may include automotive companies, aerospace firms, utilities, or engineering workshops.

During placements, learners:

• Apply diagnostic and repair skills on live equipment.

  
  

• Gain hands-on experience with tools, machinery, and digital systems.

  
  

• Work alongside engineers and technicians in multidisciplinary teams.

  
  

• Understand how maintenance impacts efficiency, safety, and sustainability.

Assessment

Assessment includes:

• Core written exams – testing knowledge of engineering science, processes, and safety.

  
  

• Employer-set project – a practical challenge simulating maintenance and repair tasks.

  
  

• Occupational specialism assessment – synoptic assessments demonstrating competence in installation, fault-finding, and repair.

  
  

• Industry placement review – confirming workplace professionalism and applied skills.

  
  

• Grades range from Pass to Distinction, with UCAS tariff points available.

  
  

Progression Routes

This T Level supports progression into:

• Higher Education: Degrees in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, mechatronics, or manufacturing systems.

  
  

• Higher or Degree Apprenticeships: Engineering technician, maintenance engineer, or manufacturing engineer apprenticeships.

  
  

• Employment: Roles such as engineering technician, maintenance fitter, vehicle technician, or electrical installer across a range of industries.

  
  

Transferable Skills

Students also develop highly transferable skills, including:

• Problem-Solving and Analytical Thinking – diagnosing faults and proposing solutions.

  
  

• Practical and Technical Competence – applying engineering principles to real equipment.

  
  

• Collaboration and Communication – working with colleagues, supervisors, and clients.

  
  

• Time and Task Management – prioritising maintenance to reduce downtime.

  
  

• Adaptability – working with emerging technologies and new equipment.

  
  

• These skills are in demand across sectors including automotive, aerospace, manufacturing, and utilities.

Conclusion

The Maintenance, Installation and Repair for Engineering & Manufacturing T Level develops learners into workplace-ready technicians with a balance of theory and practice. Through classroom study, hands-on experience, and industry placements, it provides a strong foundation for progression into further study, apprenticeships, or immediate employment.