Eduqas draft specifications for new V Levels, Foundation Certificates and Occupational Certificates now available
Following an extensive period of development and collaboration with educators, employers and sector stakeholders, Eduqas has begun submitting its draft specifications for the new V Levels, Foundation Certificates and Occupational Certificates to Ofqual for approval.
The draft specifications are available now to download:
A co-constructed approach to qualification development
Commenting on this significant milestone, Suzanne Hall, Director of Product at Eduqas, said:
| "We are delighted to have begun submitting these exciting new qualifications for approval. Throughout the development process, our teams have adopted a co-construction approach, working closely with teachers, employers and other stakeholders to ensure these qualifications genuinely reflect the needs of learners, centres and industry. Successful qualifications must balance the realities of the workplace with the practical requirements of those delivering them, and that collaboration has been central to our work. At Eduqas, we are passionate about vocational and technical education because we know that high-quality qualifications can be transformational for young people. When learners can clearly see the relevance of what they are studying and understand where it can lead, they are better equipped to make informed decisions about their future." |
Why we are excited about these qualifications
V Levels
"We believe learners thrive when qualifications are rigorous, purposeful and closely linked to future opportunities. V Levels have the potential to provide exactly that, helping young people develop the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to succeed in an increasingly dynamic economy.
By sitting alongside A Levels, V Levels will offer learners greater flexibility to combine academic and vocational study within a single programme, creating broader progression opportunities into higher education, apprenticeships and employment."
Foundation Certificates
"One of the most positive aspects of Foundation Certificates is that they recognise learners develop at different rates. Not everyone is ready for the same pathway at the same time, and these qualifications provide a structured bridge for learners who have the potential to succeed at Level 3 but would benefit from an additional year of preparation.
From our perspective, that is a real strength of the reform. It is about providing the right support at the right time, ensuring learners are equipped to succeed rather than being rushed into a programme before they are ready."
Occupational Certificates
"One of the real strengths of Occupational Certificates is the clarity they provide for learners. Every element of the qualification is designed around preparation for a specific occupational area, helping learners clearly understand how their studies connect to future employment opportunities.
Because these qualifications are based on recognised occupational standards, learners can be confident they are developing the skills and knowledge employers genuinely need and value. This close alignment between education and industry is a particularly important feature of the reform.
Occupational Certificates support that ambition by acting as a bridge between education and employment, helping learners progress confidently into apprenticeships, further training or work."
Supporting centres every step of the way
Suzanne added:
"As we look ahead to delivery in 2027, supporting centres remains one of our highest priorities. Our teams are already developing a comprehensive package of professional learning, guidance and resources to help teachers deliver these qualifications with confidence.
We look forward to sharing more details about our support offer in the coming months and working closely with centres to ensure successful implementation."
About the new qualifications
The following qualifications will be introduced from September 2027:
V Levels (Level 3)
New vocational qualifications that will sit alongside A Levels, providing learners with greater flexibility to combine academic and vocational study. They are designed to equip learners with the knowledge, skills and practical experience needed to progress confidently into higher education, apprenticeships or employment.
Foundation Certificates (Level 2)
Qualifications designed to support learners progressing to Level 3 pathways, including V Levels, A Levels and T Levels. They help learners develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed for their next steps while building an understanding of their chosen sector.
Occupational Certificates (Level 2)
Qualifications designed to develop occupationally focused skills and knowledge, supporting learners as they prepare for employment or apprenticeships.
Draft specification publication schedule
Please note that all draft specifications are subject to regulatory approval and may change before final approval.
V Levels (Level 3)
Foundation Certificates (Level 2)
Occupational Certificates (Level 2)
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