Qualification Reform with Eduqas

As the landscape of qualifications in England evolves, Eduqas stands behind every teacher, ready to provide the support and guidance you need to navigate the changes ahead.

Changes are coming for both post-16 qualifications and the wider curriculum in England, with new qualification types almost here, and reforms to familiar qualifications such as GCSEs and A Levels on the horizon.

We know that change can be daunting, particularly when you’re juggling so many priorities inside and outside the classroom. That’s why we’ll be here to support you every step of the way.

Learn more about qualification reform and how Eduqas can help below.




Get your free guide to qualification reform

We’ve written a free downloadable guide to help support you through the changes ahead and give you an idea of what to expect, including:

  • How to prepare for reform

  • What’s changing at post-16

  • What’s changing at GCSE

  • How you can help shape our new qualifications

Download your free guide


Reform Guide



Our new Post 16 Qualifications

One of the Department for Education (DfE)’s key goals for post-16 qualification reform is to create clearer pathways for learners, with an offer that includes high-quality academic, technical and vocational options.

Eduqas is developing a range of new qualifications at Level 2 and Level 3 in response to DfE’s plans:

V Levels

V Levels are an exciting new type of Level 3 qualification offering learners the ability to combine vocational learning with opportunities for academic progression.

We are developing two V Levels for first teaching in September 2027:

  • Digital Systems and Data

  • Education


V Level learners in a computer lab


Foundation Certificates

A childcare worker plays with a young child in a nursery

Foundation Certificates are new Level 2 qualifications aiming to create a clear pathway to further study such as A Levels, V Levels or T Levels.

We are developing two Foundation Certificates for first teaching in September 2027:

  • Digital Systems and Data

  • Education


Occupational Certificates

Catering learners work in a kitchen

Occupational Certificates are new Level 2 qualifications designed to help learners take their next steps into employment or an apprenticeship.

We are developing three Occupational Certificates for first teaching in September 2027:

  • Early Years Practitioner

  • Culinary Skills

  • Hospitality



What’s coming for GCSE?

GCSEs are expected to evolve rather than undergo a complete redesign, with changes aimed at reducing content overload, strengthening essential knowledge and skills, and better reflecting learner needs.

Alongside these changes, new Vocational GCSEs will sit alongside traditional GCSEs, offering a more practical, career-focused option for 14–16-year-olds.

The first reformed GCSEs are planned for first teaching in September 2029.



GCSE learners sit an exam




Behind Every Teacher

Real people and real relationships are going to be vital when it comes to supporting our schools and colleges through reform.


Support from a dedicated team that understands the classroom


Our Regional Support Team made up of experienced former teachers will be here to help guide you through the process. You can contact them at hereforyou@eduqas.co.uk.

Easy access to subject expert advice


Our Subject Teams will also be ready to support you with any questions you may have, with each team led by a Subject Officer with a teaching background who understands the challenges of the classroom.


Comprehensive digital resources and professional learning


When our new qualifications are approved you can also expect our usual comprehensive package of digital resources, and a programme of expert-led professional learning to help you teach with confidence.

 

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