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, new V Level (vocational) qualifications are being introduced to sit alongside A Levels (academic) and T Levels (technical).
V Levels will be the same size as an A Level and can be taken alongside A Levels, or other V Levels, to create a broad study programme appropriate for a young person who wishes to progress to higher level study without specialising in one particular area.
V Levels will feature engaging applied teaching, learning and assessment designed to develop real world skills. They will be linked to occupational standards, strengthening employer confidence in vocational qualifications and helping to meet the country’s long-term skills needs.
V Levels will be introduced on a route-by-route basis between the 2027/28 and 2030/31 academic years.
Timeline
The first three V Levels confirmed for delivery from September 2027 are:
- Digital Systems and Data
- Education and Early Years
- Accounting and Finance
The Government intends to rollout the additional V Levels 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.
| Academic year 2028 to 2029 |
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| Academic year 2029 to 2030 |
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| Academic year 2030 to 2031 |
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Further information
More information on the reform of post-16 qualifications at level 3 and below can be found here.
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