Question to the Department for Education:

To ask His Majesty's Government what proportion of the current work placements offered for T-level students is by employers with fewer than 10 employees.

The department does not hold data on the type and size of employers offering T Level industry placements. However, insight from T Level providers indicates that a large number of employers offering placements are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The department recognises that some sectors and employers face specific upfront costs to deliver industry placements, including SMEs. The Employer Support Fund will continue into the 2026/27 financial year, helping SMEs hosting placements for any T Levels to meet essential costs.

The department delivers a dedicated SME engagement campaign to increase awareness of the benefits and opportunities associated with industry placements and facilitates connections between SMEs and providers.

In addition, a network of over 1,400 T Level Ambassadors champion T Levels and industry placements across the business community, including among SMEs.