Greater Manchester leads the UK in T Level success

Greater Manchester is establishing itself as a national leader in technical education, with new results confirming the region’s outstanding performance in the government’s flagship T Level qualifications.

Ahead of National T Levels Week (13- 17th October), the city-region’s colleges have revealed that over 800 learners across Greater Manchester achieved a remarkable 93% pass rate, outperforming the national average of 91%. The achievement underscores the city-region’s role as a trailblazer in delivering the skills and talent needed to drive the economy forward.

Across the wider North West, demand for T Levels continues to surge, with 2,145 students now enrolled, a 47% increase on last year, making it the largest cohort in the country. Greater Manchester is at the forefront of this success, setting the benchmark for excellence, demonstrating how strong partnerships between colleges, employers and local communities can transform opportunities for young people.

Nationally, a total of 11,909 students have now secured a T Level, with overall pass rates rising from 88% to 91%. Popular subject areas such as Education and Childcare, Digital Production, Design and Development, and Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction continue to attract high numbers of students, demonstrating strong demand for career-focused qualifications that link directly to industry.

The results underline Greater Manchester’s leadership role in skills development and highlight the North West’s pivotal contribution to building the workforce of the future.

GMColleges Chair, Anna Dawe, said:

“The North West is proving itself to be the driving force behind the T Level movement in the UK. With record numbers of students, rising pass rates, and Greater Manchester students outperforming the national average, it’s clear that our region is setting the pace in technical education. Our learners are shining stars, equipped with the skills, knowledge and confidence to thrive in their chosen careers.”