V-Levels aim to offer students more flexibility, allowing exploration of sectors like engineering, agriculture, or digital before choosing a specialization, and will be offered alongside existing qualifications, with T-Levels expanding into new subject areas.

The government aims to address underachievement and disengagement among post-16 students, especially those not in education, employment, or training, by creating more engaging and effective qualification pathways.

The UK Department for Education has announced a major reform of the post-16 education system, introducing a new 'V-Level' qualification designed to sit alongside A-Levels and T-Levels, replacing the current 900 vocational qualifications for 16 to 19-year-olds.

These reforms seek to develop a more cohesive, fair, and high-quality post-16 education system that aligns with labor market needs and reduces the number of young people who are NEET.

Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emphasizes that vocational and technical education are vital for the economy and are key to breaking the link between socioeconomic background and success.

Education leaders, industry representatives, and unions welcomed the reforms, highlighting the importance of providing clear, fair, and engaging pathways for post-16 learners to access higher education, apprenticeships, and employment.

Stakeholders stressed the need for better resources, clearer pathways, and more effective support for English and maths resits to improve student confidence and outcomes.

The government plans to support students in achieving the 'vital pass' in English and maths GCSEs, particularly targeting disadvantaged groups and lower-attaining students, to better prepare them for the workforce.

The government will launch a consultation on implementing V-Levels and expanding T-Levels into additional subject areas, with positive feedback from educational leaders.

Reforms also aim to improve confidence and effectiveness in English and maths resits, responding to criticisms of the current system as demoralizing and ineffective.