Post-16 pathways: implementation plan
Sets out how the changes we are making to the technical and vocational qualifications a young person can choose from the age of 16 will be delivered.
Applies to England
Documents
Details
This implementation plan outlines further details of the reforms set out in the Post-16 level 3 and below pathways: government consultation response.
The Department for Education will introduce a third, vocational pathway at level 3, creating V Level qualifications. V Levels will sit alongside A levels and T Levels, offering a vocational alternative to these academic and technical routes.
We will introduce 2 new pathways at level 2, providing a clear line of sight to both further study at level 3 (Foundation Certificates) and skilled employment (Occupational Certificates).
We will also introduce T Levels in new subject areas and make changes to improve their accessibility and scalability while maintaining quality.
The plan is aimed at partners involved in delivering the skills system, including:
- post-16 education and training providers
- awarding organisations
- higher-education providers
- local and strategic authorities
- employers
- schools
- providers of careers information, advice and guidance
Updates to this page
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Updated 'Post-16 pathways: implementation plan' to state that Ofqual expects the accreditation process for recognised awarding organisations to begin in autumn 2026.
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Updated the 'Subject content and qualification development' section in the 'Post-16 pathways: implementation plan'.
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The deadline for providers to submit their strategic transition planning statements has passed. Late submissions must be made as soon as possible.
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First published.
Update history
2026-07-17 15:47
Updated ‘Post-16 pathways: implementation plan’ to state that Ofqual expects the accreditation process for recognised awarding organisations to begin in autumn 2026.
2026-07-16 09:30
Updated the ‘Subject content and qualification development’ section in the ‘Post-16 pathways: implementation plan’.
2026-07-07 09:30
The deadline for providers to submit their strategic transition planning statements has passed. Late submissions must be made as soon as possible.
2026-05-20 09:30
First published.