Post-16 Level 3 in England
What's changing and when?
Funding for large Science vocational qualifications is expected to be removed. These reforms aim to simplify the post‑16 landscape by focusing on T Levels and smaller technical or academic qualifications.
Changes to funding are expected to be in place from September 2026.
T Levels
T Level in Science
T Levels are two-year, full-time programmes equivalent to three A Levels for learners wishing to focus exclusively on their technical subject.
Content:
- Core component – 3 exam papers
- Employer-Set Project (ESP)
- Occupational Specialisms:
- Food Science
- Laboratory Science
- Industry placement (minimum 315 hours)
- Core assessment through exams and ESP
- OS assessment which includes practical activities
Alternative Academic Qualifications (AAQs)
Alternative Academic Qualifications in Science (AAQs)
Flexible Mixed Programmes
AAQs offer flexibility in mixed programmes by combining mandatory content, external exams, and Pearson Set assignment Briefs (PSAB).
Available in the Science sector:
- Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Applied Science
- Pearson Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification BTEC National in Medical Science
Complementary to A levels
- They are designed to be taken alongside A levels, or other small or medium sized vocational qualifications (pending funding outcomes)
Pathways to Higher Education
- AAQs provide strong progression routes into higher education, supporting student advancement and career opportunities.
Other Small or Academic Qualifications
Other Small or Academic Qualifications
A levels Qualifications
A levels courses in subjects like Biology, Chemistry and Physics provide advanced academic knowledge for further education or careers.
GCSE Resits
GCSE English and Maths resits help learners improve essential skills necessary for academic progress where needed.
Extended Project Qualification
Level 3 stand-alone qualification equivalent to half an A level.
Qualifications for age 14+ learners (Key Stage 4)
Qualifications for 14+ learners (Key Stage 4)
Qualifications for age 16+ learners
Qualifications for age 18+ learners
Qualifications for 18+ learners/adults
Applied Science
Rubiya Mahjabin studied BTEC whilst working part-time as a pharmacy technician. Her plan was to study A levels to extend knowledge and gain UCAS points to progress into university to qualify as a pharmacist.
"BTEC is the bridge from who I am to who I’m meant to be. It taught me that learning is living, and living is learning.”
