The vocational qualification will replace 900 ’confusing’ level 3 courses
The Department for Education (DfE) will introduce new post-GCSE ‘V Level’ qualifications aimed at helping young people into work or university.
DfE said the new vocational certification will “streamline the confusing landscape” of approximately 900 equivalent qualifications currently available at level 3.
Students will be able to take a mixture of V Levels and A Levels, which aims to provide a “clear option for young people who want to get on in the world of work, university or apprenticeships but want to explore different key sectors”.
For example, a student wanting to get into either the creative arts or media industry could choose to take two V Levels - one in craft and design and one in media, broadcast and production as well as one A Level in music.
The news comes after the prime minister announced a plan to get two-thirds of young people participating in higher-level learning - academic, technical or on an apprenticeship.
A package of reforms to education, including V Levels, will be outlined in the Post 16 Education and Skills White Paper due to be published later today.
Bridget Phillipson, education secretary, said: “Technical and vocational education is the backbone of this country’s economy and central to breaking the link between background and success, helping hundreds of thousands of young people get the skills they need to get good jobs.”
The reforms are backed by an additional £800m of funding for 16-19 education in 2026/27.
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