The future of post-16 vocational qualifications at Levels 2 and 3

Clear guidance. Trusted support.

We’re here to guide and support you through post-16 vocational qualification reform, and to help you plan confidently for the future.

Speak to us about reform

Latest updates

Draft specifications are available for download.

Schools and colleges in England can now take a first detailed look at our new post-16 vocational qualifications. We've published draft specifications and sample assessment materials for the first three qualifications planned for first teaching from September 2027:

  • Level 3 V Level in Digital Systems and Data
  • Level 3 V Level in Education
  • Level 2 Foundation Certificate in Education

These early drafts give educators the chance to get to know the new qualifications, understand what to expect from the final specifications when they're available next year, and start shaping your future curriculum plans.

These are draft specifications and sample assessment materials, so the content and assessment arrangements remain subject to regulatory approval. 

Read our full update

New qualifications

Introducing V Levels, Foundation Certificates and Occupational Certificates in development for first teach from September 2027.

Explore our V Levels and vocational qualifications

Shape the future of vocational qualifications

Collaborate with us on the development of new Level 2 and 3 qualifications.

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The future vocational qualification landscape

Designed to create clearer routes for learners and simplify progression pathways.

Qualification reform is reshaping the post-16 landscape in England. Whether you're reviewing your curriculum, planning future delivery or supporting learner progression, it's important to understand what is changing, when it is happening and what it means for your organisation.

To stay informed on the latest post-16 vocational reforms including the introduction of V Levels, Foundation Certificates, Occupational Certificates, BTEC funding and guidance, visit our V Levels and post-16 vocational qualifications page.

Explore the new landscape

Level 2

Level 3

NEW

Foundation Certificates

  • One-year course
  • 240-300 GLH
  • Progression to Occupational Certificate or Level 3 study

NEW

Occupational Certificates

  • Two-year course
  • 540-720 GLH
  • Progression to employment or an apprenticeship

NEW

V Levels

  • Two-year course
  • 360 GLH
  • Progression to higher level study or HE

UPDATED

T Levels

  • Two-year course
  • 1080 GLH
  • Progression to employment, an apprenticeship or HE

Explore our new vocational qualifications

Frequently asked questions

Do the reforms apply to all parts of the UK?

No. The proposed reforms apply only to England. Centres in Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland are not affected. BTECs remain fully approved and funded in those regions.

Please check the funding guide for your region for details.

Explore useful links

Can we continue to register students on BTEC programmes?

You can continue to register students and deliver your current BTECs for cohorts starting in 2026/27. From 2027, V Levels and Level 2 pathways will begin to be introduced.

Current BTEC Level 3 Nationals, BTEC National (AAQs) and BTEC Level 2 Technicals, Firsts and Skills remain fully approved and available until the new qualifications are introduced in the subject area. Extended Diplomas in T Level subjects will have funding removed from 2027 where T Levels are currently available, or in the year the T Level is introduced.

View our Guide to Funding and Support

Explore the new qualificaitons

When will V Levels and T Levels be introduced in my subject area?

The government’s planned rollout of V levels, Level 2 pathways and T Levels have been shared in their Transition Plan. Further detail about subjects within each route is provided in the Post-16 pathways Implementation Plan.

Explore the DfE Transition Plan

View the Post-16 pathways: implementation plan

The first V Levels are planned for first teaching from September 2027. Pearson is currently developing V Levels in Accounting and Finance, Digital Systems and Data, and Education, subject to regulatory approval and funding confirmation.

Explore our new qualifications

Further subject areas are expected to become available in phases. Additional V Levels are planned for first teaching between the 2028/29 and 2030/31 academic years. Later-stage information remains subject to the qualification development and regulatory process.

Download our Guide for Funding and Support

What does this mean for current BTEC students?

There is no impact on students currently studying BTECs. Their qualifications remain fully valid and valued by universities, employers, and apprenticeship providers.

Will a student be able to combine multiple V Levels for a full study programme, or does it need to include an A level?​

Yes. V Levels are designed to be studied alongside other qualifications, giving learners flexibility to build a programme around their interests, strengths and future plans.

  • a V Level with one or more A Levels

  • different V Levels or funded BTECs

  • V Levels with English or Maths resits 

Because a V Level is equivalent in size to one A Level, it can support mixed academic and vocational programmes. This may suit learners who want applied learning while keeping a range of higher education, apprenticeship and employment options open.

The DfE is not planning to implement rules of combination on which qualifications can be combined to form the qualification element of a programme of study. This will allow providers to combine new V Levels in Education, Accounting and Finance and Digital Systems and Data with existing funded qualifications.

Explore subject options and examples of programmes of study

Funding guides and useful links

Have questions?

Please use the form below to get in touch or to sign up for updates or visit the Pearson support portal

Together, we'll ensure your learners continue to receive the excellent vocational education they deserve.

Contact us today