The Government has announced the first V-levels will be in education, digital and finance from 2027
V-levels will sit alongside A-levels and T-levels and be equivalent to one A-level to let students combine academic and vocational subjects
The Reforms come as poll finds majority of parents in the North West want their children to enjoy combination of academic and vocational training
The V levels will help reach the Prime Minister’s target to get two-thirds of young people taking a gold standard apprenticeship, higher training or heading to university by age 25
Students who want to specialise in technical, sector-focused studies will also have more options, as T Levels – which combine study and real‑world work experience – will be expanded to include subjects such as Sports, Fitness and Exercise Science, along with Care Services.
New qualifications will be introduced next year for 16‑year‑olds, providing a year of study before progressing to V Levels, T Levels or A levels, with initial subjects in Education and Early Years, and Digital.
A separate two‑year, employment‑focused route will also be available for those aiming to move straight into work or an apprenticeship, starting in Catering and Hospitality, and Education and Early Years.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said:
“Our bold reforms will end the snobbery in post-16 education, supporting young people with real choice and real opportunity to build secure, future‑proof careers.
“Not only that, but it will give parents much-needed confidence in a system that values every route to success – academic, technical or vocational – as we continuing driving forward our mission to ensure two‑thirds of young people are in education, training or apprenticeships by 25.”
