Leeds City College T Level student secures full-time banking job after successful placement

A Leeds City College student is praising T Levels for ‘opening doors’ after the qualification helped him gain a foothold in the banking industry.

Hammad Sajjad was offered a permanent role with Halifax Bank after completing an industry placement with the company as part of his Business Management and Administration T Level at Leeds City College.

Having developed an interest in banking and finance from an early age, Hammad knew which industry he wanted to pursue a career in but needed an opportunity to gain practical experience.

Turning ambition into opportunity

He credits his T Level with providing that opportunity, allowing him to develop valuable workplace skills and ultimately secure employment in his chosen sector. 

Speaking during T Levels Week, Hammad said: “I always knew I wanted to work in banking, but I needed an opportunity to get my foot in the door. My teachers and placement officers were fantastic in helping me find a placement in the industry I wanted to work in.

“The industry placement was one of the main reasons I chose to study a T Level. I’ve always preferred learning through hands-on experience, so having the chance to put what I was learning into practice really appealed to me.

“I never imagined that my placement would lead directly to a full-time job, but it’s allowed me to start building the career I’ve always wanted.”

Gaining the skills employers value

During his placement at Halifax, Hammad’s main responsibilities involved supporting customers with their everyday banking needs and assisting those visiting the branch. The placement gave him valuable insight into the day-to-day operations of a bank, while providing opportunities to learn new tasks and gain experience using different banking systems. 

Through working directly with customers and colleagues, Hammad further developed a range of essential workplace skills, including digital literacy, communication and teamwork.

His success comes as the government continues to place an emphasis on strengthening technical education and equipping young people with the skills employers need.

T Levels are a key part of this approach, combining classroom learning with industry placements to help students develop practical skills and experience while preparing for employment or further study.

For Hammad, the qualification provided a direct route into his chosen career, turning an industry placement into a permanent position with Halifax Bank.

Debbie Peart, T Level Business Course Leader for Leeds City College, said: “Hammad was diligent and dedicated and grew in confidence throughout the year. It was fantastic to see his hard work rewarded with an offer of employment following his placement.”

Looking ahead to a bright future

Hammad now hopes to build a career in financial services, with ambitions of progressing into a senior leadership role.

Offering advice to future T Level students, Hammad said: “Choose a placement that matches your ambitions, make the most of every opportunity and show employers what you can do. You never know where it might lead.”