In a bid to simplify post-16 education, the government has announced the creation of a new V-level qualification from 2027.

The government has announced plans for the introduction of new vocational qualifications called V levels. They will replace other qualifications to sit alongside T Levels and A levels, providing an option for young people who want to get on in the world of work, university or apprenticeships but want to explore different key sectors before choosing where to specialise. Unlike T Levels, which are equivalent to 3 A Levels, young people will be able to take a mixture of V Levels and A Levels – offering more choice and flexibility.

The new qualification will streamline the confusing landscape of approximately 900 equivalent vocational qualifications at level 3 currently available to 16 to 19-year-olds which mean learners and employers are unclear about the purpose and value of some qualifications. Young people will also be supported to get the pass they need in English and maths GCSEs. 

The new measures build on earlier announcements from the Prime Minister, including a new target for two-thirds of young people to participate in higher-level learning– academic, technical, or apprenticeships – by age 25, up from 50% today. A sub-target will ensure at least 10% of young people pursue higher technical education or apprenticeships by age 25 by 2040, a near doubling of today’s figure. 

Commenting on the announcement, Jogita Govind, Apprenticeships Manager at Travis Perkins Plc, said: “We welcome efforts to make vocational training simpler and more accessible for young people. The construction industry depends on a skilled workforce, and clear routes into trades are key to closing the UK’s skills gap.

"If V-levels can offer a more practical alternative alongside apprenticeships and T-levels, that’s a positive step. It’s important these new qualifications are developed in partnership with employers, so they equip students with the real-world skills our sector needs.

"As a top apprenticeship employer who have graduated over 2,000 apprentices, we at Travis Perkins see every day how hands-on learning changes lives and careers. Giving young people more ways to learn, earn and build their futures will be vital to supporting growth across UK construction.”