Views sought on how to improve post-16 level 2 studies

A call for evidence has been launched, seeking views on how to ensure post-16 qualifications at level 2 and below (excluding GCSEs) can support more people to progress into further study or employment. This is part of the government's plans to overhaul the post-16 landscape.

New analysis published by the Department for Education has revealed that 60% of 16 year olds who study a classroom based level 2 course do not move on to study at level 3 (A Level or T Level equivalent) the following year. It also highlights that 37% of students who leave education with a level 2 qualification find it harder to get a job, compared to 14% of students who leave with a level 3 qualification.

Gillian Keegan, Apprenticeships and Skills Minister said: "We are overhauling the post-16 system to make sure it delivers for everyone. We are already taking action to make sure qualifications at level 3 are fit for purpose, but for too long courses at level 2 and below have been overlooked and undervalued - we want to fix that.

"We want all students to be confident that whatever option they choose it will be high quality, valued by employers and will lead to an apprenticeship, further study or a great job. I encourage everyone from students to employers of all sizes to share their views so we can transform further education in this country."

In October the government set out measures aimed at making sure that whatever course a student takes at level 3 and below they can be confident it will be fit for purpose and lead to good outcomes. This includes removing funding from qualifications that overlap with T Levels and A levels, and only funding qualifications that are high quality and lead to good outcomes for students.

The government will shortly publish its FE White Paper with plans level up skills and boosts opportunities for more people.