Hartlepool College is celebrating the career success of alumnus Ben Irvine at employer partner Liberty Steel. Ben’s achievement provides a perfect example of how the College’s T-Level model is launching local talent into high-skilled jobs.
Having completed his two-year Engineering and Manufacturing T-Level this summer, Ben's dedication and applied knowledge during his extended placement with Liberty Steel earned him a maintenance engineering apprenticeship. Ben spent his industry placement working as a trainee mechanical engineer at Liberty Steel’s facility on Brenda Road, Hartlepool.
During his 45-day placement, he was quickly spotted as having great promise by the team, including Robin Todd, Mechanical Maintenance Engineering Manager. After completing his T-Level, Ben was delighted to accept the offer to join the company.
Robin said: "Ben has shown great promise. He put a lot of effort into his placement, consistently asking questions and actively using his skills. The T-Levels proved to be an excellent preparation for the workplace, providing him with the solid engineering foundation needed to integrate smoothly and start contributing immediately.”
The outcome is a prime example of how the T-Level model - which integrates classroom learning with a mandatory industry placement - is paying dividends for students and employers. Ben has the option to continue his studies further, potentially progressing on to an employer-supported Higher National Certificate (HNC) following his apprenticeship.
Steve Lord, Employer Liaison Officer at Hartlepool College, said: “Hartlepool College is delighted that Ben has secured his new maintenance engineering role, which came as a direct result of the excellent impression he made during an extended working interview as part of his engineering T-Level placement with Liberty Steel. Initially a very shy student, Ben came out of his shell in placement, and has quickly blended-in and become a well-regarded member of the steel producer's maintenance team.”
He added: "Our T-Level students are gaining valuable experience and confidence that transfers directly into their chosen career paths. Extended T-Level industry placements, typically lasting around 45 days, provide a thorough proving ground and meaningful preparation for future employment.”
For further information on Hartlepool College’s programmes, please view our course pages or call 01429 295000.
