From 3D-printed gears to aerospace engineering: Nikita’s T Level journey

Throughout T Levels Week, we’re finding out more about the students developing practical skills and working towards their future careers at Abingdon & Witney College.

We spoke to Nikita, who is studying the Engineering T Level, about why he chose the course, the projects he’s enjoyed most and how he hopes to turn his passion for engineering into a career in aerospace.

Finding the right course

Nikita originally planned to study an Engineering BTEC at another college, but after visiting an Open Day, he found a course and learning environment that suited him better.

Having heard about T Levels before, he was drawn to the opportunity to focus on one subject and develop his knowledge in an area he was passionate about.

“I preferred the idea of focusing entirely on engineering rather than studying several different subjects. The T Level is much more specialised, which really appealed to me.”

A taster session helped confirm his decision, giving him the chance to use industrial equipment in the workshop for the first time and meet the lecturers who would be teaching him.

Learning through practical experience

One of the things Nikita enjoys most about the course is the opportunity to apply his learning to real engineering tasks.

From using workshop equipment to exploring design processes, he’s been able to develop a better understanding of how engineering works in practice.

His favourite part of the course is design, which he’s found more in-depth than he initially expected. He’s also recently started using the college’s 3D printers, creating a set of gears to demonstrate how different components work together.

His first-year employer-set project was another highlight. Students were tasked with designing an aeroplane seat and explaining the decisions behind their design.

The project involved researching the different components, understanding how they fitted together and producing a detailed document within a strict time limit.

“It was probably the most intense project we’d had up until that point, but it was also really enjoyable because I got to put my skills to the test.”

Nikita was particularly pleased with the grade he achieved, which was higher than he had expected. The experience helped him recognise how much he had learnt since starting at college.

Developing skills for the engineering industry

Engineering involves more than understanding how things work. Safety, technical knowledge and following the correct procedures are all important parts of working in the industry.

Through his T Level, Nikita has developed his skills in writing risk assessments and following safe working practices. Students practise these procedures during practical tasks, with lecturers checking that they are followed correctly.

“The course is teaching me safe working practices and the terminology used in engineering workplaces.”

He believes this knowledge will be valuable when he moves into further study and employment, helping him understand the instructions and procedures used in engineering environments.

Finding an industry placement has been one of the more challenging aspects of the course so far, as not every employer is familiar with T Levels and their placement requirements. However, Nikita has continued contacting companies and exploring opportunities, with support from his tutors.

Support that makes a difference

For Nikita, the relationship between students and lecturers has been an important part of his college experience.

He feels the support he receives, alongside the industry knowledge his lecturers bring to their teaching, has helped him get more out of his education.

“You develop a much more personal relationship with your tutors and lecturers. You work with them, and they’re there to help you.”

He also feels the teaching is closely connected to the realities of engineering, giving him a clearer understanding of the skills and knowledge needed beyond the classroom.

Looking towards a future in aerospace

Nikita hopes to progress to university after completing his T Level, with the aim of pursuing a career in mechanical or aerospace engineering.

He’s particularly interested in design and the development of aircraft, and is considering several universities as he explores his next steps.

For him, the opportunity to focus on engineering, build practical skills and develop his knowledge has helped him work towards a career he’s genuinely excited about.