Extended curriculum and BTEC
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Outcome of the DfE consultation on post-16 level 3 and below pathways in England
On 10 March 2026, the government published the outcome of its consultation on post-16 level 3 and below pathways. The consultation sought views on the design and implementation of a third, vocational pathway at level 3 — to be called V Levels — and on two new pathways at level 2 in post-16 education.
We understand you’ll have questions about funding for existing qualifications in 2026/27, transition arrangements for 2027 and beyond, and what the introduction of the new qualifications will mean for you and your students.
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Continue to teach BTEC
On 10 March 2026, the government published the outcome of its consultation on post-16 level 3 and below pathways.
They have confirmed they will not remove funding from qualifications in academic year 2026/27 for a number of qualifications previously planned for defunding.
They include:
- BTEC National Extended Diplomas (1,080 GLH) in Health and Social Care, Applied Science, IT and Computing and Forensics
- BTEC National Diplomas (720 GLH) in Health and Social Care, Applied Science, IT and Computing and Forensics
- BTEC National Foundation Diploma (510 GLH) in Forensic Investigation
- BTEC National Extended Certificate (360 GLH) and Certificate (180 GLH) in Applied Psychology.
Sector support through reform
Health, Science and Digital
To help you navigate Level 3 reform in Health and Social Care, Science and Digital in England with confidence, we’ve created dedicated sector pages and free Options Guides to support your post‑16 provision.
Discover Pearson qualification options, example study programmes, and useful links and resources to support planning conversations.
Curriculum and Assessment Review
The government’s Curriculum and Assessment Review gives the education sector an opportunity to share ideas on how curriculum and assessment can bring together a love of learning with fundamental knowledge and skills. To support this, we’re sharing insights, and recommendations on key topics with the education community over the coming months.
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New L3 qualification
On 10 March 2026 the government published the outcome of its consultation on post-16 level 3 and below pathways. The consultation sought views on the design and implementation of a third, vocational pathway at level 3 — to be called V Levels — and on two new pathways at level 2 in post-16 education.
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Explore ready-made content that syncs effortlessly with your curriculum.
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