Government reveals first V-Level subjects as part of landmark reforms
The first students will take the new qualification from 2027.
Last updated 14 hours ago
Students will be able to take the very first V Levels in education, finance, and digital in 2027, under landmark reforms that Government hopes will help young people secure well-paid jobs.
The Government says that the new qualifications – equivalent to an A level – are designed around real jobs and the skills employers actually need.
V-Levels are said to be a central pillar of the Prime Minister's ambition to ensure two thirds of young people are in a quality apprenticeship, higher training or university by the age of 25. In turn, it is hoped this will help to close skills gaps, cut the number of young people not in education, employment or training, and drive economic growth.
A new poll of parents of 14 to 18-year-olds in the South West show one fifth (21%) don’t feel confident that their child understands the options available beyond GCSEs and nearly half (42%) overwhelmingly prefer a mix of academic and work-based or technical training for their children after GCSEs to better prepare them for the future.
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.
The 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.
The Department of Education says these reforms are backed by nearly £800 million extra for 16-19 education in 2026-27. Average per student funding will increase to £6,874 in the next academic year, from £6,762 in 2025/26.
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.”
Exeter and North Devon Colleges Group Principal and CEO, John Laramy CBE DL, said:
“As a major sixth form provider, we welcome the introduction of V Levels alongside A Levels and T Levels, and hope these new qualifications will give all young people the chance to pursue their ambitions."
"We’re delighted the Department for Education is committed to working closely with providers to ensure these qualifications build on what’s worked well before."
"As a large college group, we’re committed to partnering with government, learners and awarding bodies so V Levels genuinely support young people’s aspirations, wherever they choose to study.”
Chief Executive of the Sixth Form Colleges Association, Bill Watkin, said:
"Our members will warmly welcome the government’s decision to retain existing qualifications while the new suite of V level qualifications is phased in."
“Colleges and schools can now make the most of this period of stability and certainty to ensure that tens of thousands of young people have an uninterrupted educational experience, while also engaging constructively and with focus in the design and rollout of V levels."
“We are pleased that a third qualification pathway will sit alongside A levels and T levels in the future. The changes announced to T levels today are also very welcome and should make it easier for more young people to study a T level and for schools and colleges to offer them.”
Chief Regulator at Ofqual, Sir Ian Bauckham, said:
“All young people should have a post 16 pathway that is ambitious and prepares them for their future."
“Ofqual will ensure that the new post 16 qualifications announced by the government are well designed and will be valued by students, schools and colleges, universities and employers."
“They will provide high-quality pathways for young people making decisions about their futures.”
Chief Exec of UUK Vivienne Stern MBE said:
“There is no single route into university and students should feel confident that when they get there, their previous qualifications will equip them with the academic and practical skills needed to go on to enter and thrive in the workforce."
“Through our Future Jobs programme, universities across the UK are listening to business leaders to ensure their offering continues to deliver real opportunity and prepares young people for the jobs of tomorrow.”