Lamin is a second-year student studying the Level 3 T Level Business: Management & Administration course and has found it both enjoyable and highly practical. With a strong interest in business, Lamin has thrived in an environment that combines classroom learning with real-world workplace experience.
As part of the T Level programme, Lamin completed a mandatory industry placement of over 315 hours with The Real Birth Company, a national organisation providing maternity services across the UK. Initially unsure about the placement, Lamin decided to give it a go, a decision he says he has “never looked back” from.
During his time at The Real Birth Company, Lamin had the opportunity to experience a wide range of departments, including finance and IT. This variety allowed him to develop a broad understanding of how different business functions operate together, while gaining valuable, real-life workplace experience that directly supported his studies at college.
So impressed were the company with Lamin’s attitude and performance that once his placement ended, they offered him a part-time role, which he now continues alongside his studies two days per week.
They said, “Lamin has been an excellent addition to the team, he has shown constant drive to learn and develop his skills. He has been able to pick up quickly some of the workings within the organisation and is always looking to do more to develop himself and help within the company.”
One of the aspects Lamin has enjoyed most about the T Level course is its practical nature. He values how classroom learning is consistently linked to real-life application, helping him build confidence and relevant skills. A highlight of the course for Lamin was taking part in the Business Showcase Event, where students planned and managed a professional event as part of their studies in events management. Lamin and his peers presented summary posters to visiting guests, gaining experience in communication, organisation and presentation, all essential workplace skills.
Balancing college and work has worked well for Lamin. With college attended Monday to Wednesday and placement days later in the week, he found the structure manageable and supportive.
Lamin is particularly appreciative of the support he has received from his tutors, especially Liza, who he describes as being consistently helpful throughout the course. From providing learning materials and exam support, to helping Lamin prepare his personal statement and research university options, Lamin feels well supported in both his academic and personal progression.
Since starting the course, Lamin says he has grown significantly in confidence. Having moved from Africa around the time he began college, he initially found the transition challenging. However, through presentations, group work, meetings and communication-focused activities, he now feels far more comfortable and confident, and laughs that everything has “worked out in the end”.
Looking ahead, Lamin plans to progress to university in September, where he hopes to study Business Management.
When asked what advice he would give to others considering the course, Lamin’s response is simple:
“Just do it.”
He highlights the benefits of practical learning, fewer days in college compared to school, and the long-term rewards of sticking with the challenge.
One of Lamin’s favourite projects was creating a business plan for a taxi company, inspired by his experience living in Monmouth where there are limited transport options, a great example of how students are encouraged to spot real-world opportunities and think entrepreneurially.
Lamin’s journey is a strong example of how T Levels prepare students for employment, higher education, and personal growth, all while building confidence and real workplace skills.
Find out more about Lamin’s course: HERE
Find out more about The Real Birth Company: HERE