DfE blog: New V levels and post-16 qualifications explained

We're transforming post-16 education so every young person can gain the knowledge and skills they need to get a good job, go on to university, or achieve other ambitions. 

From 2027, new V levels will be introduced to provide clarity to young people on their post-16 learning options.  

These reforms will make sure that whatever a student's interests or strengths, whether academic, technical, or vocational, there's a clear, high-quality path for them. 

These changes are part of wider reforms to create a clearer, more flexible post-16 system — helping young people combine academic and vocational study and preparing them for future jobs. 

What are V levels? 

Alongside A levels (the established academic route) and T Levels (the technical and occupational route that includes an industry placement), there will soon be a third option called V levels. 

V levels will be new Level 3 qualifications that offer a vocational pathway for students who want to explore different sectors before deciding where to specialise. 

This new pathway will replace the wide range of qualifications that are not A or T levels and enable students to study a range of areas. 

Each V Level will be equivalent in size to one A level. This means students will be able to combine V Levels with A levels, creating a programme that reflects their interests and career ambitions. 

The first V Levels will be available from September 2027 in Digital, Education and Early Years, and Finance and Accounting. More subjects will follow over time. 

Why are these changes being made? 

Research shows many parents want clearer choices after GCSEs. In a recent survey of over 1,100 parents of 14–18-year-olds, nearly half said they preferred a mix of academic and work-based learning for their child after GCSEs. At the same time, around a quarter said they were not confident their child understood the options available to them. 

The reforms aim to clarify the system, give young people more flexibility to mix and match subjects, and make sure qualifications are clearly recognised by employers and higher education providers. 

What new options are being introduced at Level 2 (GCSE equivalent)? 

Two new pathways are being created to better support students at Level 2 — the level broadly equivalent to GCSEs. These pathways will support those aged 16-18, providing clear route that matches their aspirations, whether that is work or moving into further study: 

The Occupational Pathway 

For those who want to develop the skills and experience needed to move straight into a skilled job or apprenticeship after Level 2. This two-year, employment-focused programme will give students training designed around real jobs and industries, helping them become work-ready and confident about starting in work. The first students will be able to do Catering and Hospitality, and Education and Early Years from September 2027.  

The Further Study Pathway 

For students who plan to continue in education and progress onto Level 3 courses like A levels, T Levels, or V levels, but who may need more time to prepare, building confidence and strengthening their skills first. This pathway will bridge the gap to higher-level study, helping students prepare for their next step in education. 

These changes will ensure every young person has a route that's right for them, whether they're aiming for work, higher education, or further study. We recognise that there may be circumstances as well where students wish to transfer between the pathways and we will consider how best we can support that. 

The first subjects will be available in Education and Early Years, and Digital, including IT and tech.   

The new pathways are also designed to support young people who are at risk of becoming NEET (not in education, employment or training), by providing clearer progression routes and more tailored support. 

What if you're struggling with English and maths GCSEs? 

Many young people find themselves stuck repeating English and maths GCSE exams, which can be frustrating and discouraging. 

To help, new English and maths qualifications will be introduced for those aged 16-19 to act as a positive step towards achieving a GCSE grade 4 or above. 

The new approach will give students more time to secure the foundational knowledge they need and tailored support to build confidence before resitting exams. 

All providers will still be required to support 16–19-year-olds who haven't yet achieved a GCSE grade 4 (or equivalent) in English and maths. This means students now have more teaching time, more support, and a better chance of success. 

How will this improve technical and vocational education? 

We're investing an extra £800 million in 16–19 education in 2026–27, and establishing 29 new Technical Excellence Colleges focused on key industries. 

On top of new V levels, T Levels will also be expanded into additional subjects, including Sports, Fitness and Exercise Science and Care Services. Changes to placements and assessments will help more students access them. 

This is about giving every young person the opportunity to succeed, while ensuring employers get the skilled workforce they need. 

What happens next? 

The government has published its response to the consultation on the new qualifications, setting out timelines, subject areas and how providers will transition to the reformed system. 

The first students will begin the new qualifications in September 2027. The transition to the new system will be phased to give schools and colleges time to prepare.