Post-16: Programmes of Study

Supporting educators and their learners through qualification reform

The post-16 vocational Level 2 and Level 3 portfolio in England is evolving, these study programmes will inspire and give some direction to educators and their learners as we progress through qualification reform.

Please read: Important information

The table below presents the current qualifications that will have funding removed from summer 2027 alongside a number of examples of subject specific Programmes of Study that can be used to support you and your learners from September 2027. The programmes could include a:

  • T Level programme if available
  • large BTEC programme where funding remains
  • mixed programme which could include a mix of V levels, funded BTECs and/or A levels.

Qualification titles that include a * are in development for first teach from September 2027.

More examples, will be added as we progress through qualification reform.

For further support and guidance:

Further guidance on programmes of study

Combinations

There are various factors to consider when devising a student’s ​programme, including:​

  • their strengths, interests and intended progression destination​

  • whether they need to continue with English/Mathematics alongside​

  • any non-qualification activities they will be undertaking, ​e.g. work placement​

Progression

One of the most important considerations when devising a programme of study is taking account ​of students' intended progression outcome.​

Study programmes should align with students’ intended progression goals, such as higher education aspirations.​

For example, many students taking the BTEC Level 3 Nationals ​will be intending, or hoping, to progress to HE.​

For those intending to progress to HE, select subjects/ qualifications that cover a broad range of content and skills relevant to their intended degree specialism(s). This will help maximise their chance of successfully progressing to HE. Some universities have subject-specific entry requirements, particularly for STEM-related degrees, where they may require students to have studied specific subjects and/or specific A levels.

Check entry requirements​

Understanding varying university entry requirements is crucial​ for guiding students effectively.​

At present, a few selective UK universities do not accept students with more than one vocational qualification at Level 3. Where universities do accept students holding more than one BTEC qualification, they generally expect this to be in separate subject disciplines and do not accept combinations with a high degree ​of overlap, irrespective of UCAS points. ​

It is important to check that your student’s intended destination(s)accept the combination(s) you are considering delivering. ​

Where students have yet to decide which university and/or degreethey wish to progress to, it is worth asking your main recruitinguniversities for their views on your proposed combination.​