Vocational and Applied Qualifications

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- Level 2 Pathways (16-19)

Level 2 Pathways (16-19)

The government has confirmed reforms to qualifications at Level 3 and below in England to create clearer progression routes for students after age 16. As part of these changes, two new Level 2 pathways will be introduced to support progression into employment, apprenticeships, or further study.

Level 2 Occupational Pathway

The Level 2 Occupational Pathway is designed for students who want to progress into a specific occupation or apprenticeship.

It will include a new Level 2 Occupational Certificate and is expected to be delivered as a two-year study programme. Courses will combine sector knowledge, occupational skills, English and maths, and employability development.

Students completing this pathway are expected to progress into employment or apprenticeships.

Level 2 Foundation Pathway

The Level 2 Foundation Pathway is designed for students who are expected to progress to Level 3 but need an additional preparation year first.

It will include a new Level 2 Foundation Certificate delivered as a one-year programme. Courses will focus on vocational learning, English and maths, study skills, and readiness for Level 3 study.

Students completing this pathway are expected to progress into Level 3 qualifications such as A Levels, T Levels, V Levels, or other approved programmes.

Timeline

The Government intends to rollout the reformed qualifications on a route-by-route basis. Below is an indication of the routes in which new qualifications will be introduced and an approximate timeline.

	Foundation Certificates	Occupational Certificates
Academic year 2027 to 2028	Digital Education and early years	Catering and hospitality Education and early years
Academic year 2028 to 2029	Business, administration and law Care services Construction and the built environment Engineering and manufacturing Health and science Sports, fitness and exercise science	Business and administration Care services Construction and the built environment Digital Engineering and manufacturing Finance and administration Health and science Sports and leisure
Academic year 2029 to 2030	Agriculture, environmental and animal care Catering and hospitality Hair and beauty Protective services	Agriculture, environmental and animal care Hair and beauty Horticulture and floristry
Academic year 2030 to 2031	Art and performing arts Creative and design Travel and tourism

Further information

More information on the reform of post-16 qualifications at level 3 and below can be found here.

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