Response to consultation on post-16 education and training

AQA has responded to the Government’s consultation on changes to post-16 education and training in England, including new V levels and Foundation Certificates.

The response welcomes many of the proposals, however it also highlights that some changes are needed, including allowing more time to implement the reforms.

AQA CEO Colin Hughes said: “We will work with the Government, the regulator and the education system to help tackle the challenge of young people not in work, education or training, and to develop skills and support the wider economy.

“However, we believe that some changes are needed, including to the timetable, to enable the system to focus on quality.

“As the new qualifications are developed, they should be seen as part of a wider system: this will provide an opportunity to consider how choices and progression routes will work for all students.”

The consultation also seeks views on V Levels, which will be new level 3 vocational qualifications

AQA welcomes the introduction of V levels but recommends keeping subjects to a manageable number and ensuring that they are distinct from A-levels and T Levels.

Mr Hughes said: “The starting point should be to design V levels in a way that supports employer and higher education confidence and progression opportunities. They should not become quasi-academic qualifications, in their content or assessment.

“With more time, we are confident that schools and colleges – with support from awarding organisations and others – can develop engaging and valuable level 3 programmes, including V levels. This will then provide students with high quality advice to support their choices, giving them the respect and progression opportunities that they deserve.”

Our full response is available here: AQA | About AQA | Consultation Responses