Yesterday, Tuesday 23 November 2021, the Education Committee launched an inquiry examining how effectively post-16 qualifications, such as A levels, T levels, BTECs and apprenticeships, prepare young people for the world of work. The Committee will consider the Government’s current work and proposals in this area and look at whether an alternative model, which enables a greater blend of academic and vocational pathways, should be explored.
The deadline for submissions is Thursday 20th January 2022.
The Future of Post-16 Qualifications inquiry will consider the Government’s latest proposed changes for post-16 qualifications, including its reforms to post-16 qualifications at level 3 and proposals in the Skills and Post-16 Education Bill, which is currently going through Parliament.
It will also examine the strengths and weaknesses of the current qualifications system, how T levels are being delivered, and the possible benefits of introducing a baccalaureate system that would allow young people to study a greater blend of academic and vocational subjects.
The Committee is inviting written submissions addressing any or all of the following areas:
- The experience to date of those taking or delivering T Levels, and any changes to T Levels that may be needed to ensure they are accessible to all students.
- The strengths and weaknesses of the current system of post-16 qualifications, with reference to A Levels, T Levels, BTECs and apprenticeships, in preparing young people for work or further and higher education.
- The benefits and challenges the Government’s proposed changes to level 3 qualifications would bring, with reference to any implications for BTECs and routes into apprenticeships.
- The extent to which the Government’s review of level 3 qualifications will impact disadvantaged groups, students from minority ethnic backgrounds, students known to the care system, and students with special educational needs or disabilities, and what measures might be put in place to mitigate any negative impacts
- The benefits and disadvantages of introducing a baccalaureate system in post-16 education that allows students to take a variety of subjects, including both academic and vocational options.
- The benefits and disadvantages of a post-qualifications admission system. International good practice examples of systems for post-16 education and qualifications.
The deadline for submissions is Thursday 20th January 2022, you can submit your written evidence here.