New V Levels, Foundation Certificates And Occupational Certificates Published For 2027

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The Department for Education (DfE) has published the subject content for a new range of post-16 qualifications that will be available to young people from September 2027.

The newly published content sets out the national requirements and framework that awarding organisations will use to develop detailed qualification specifications. The content was finalised following a six-week public consultation and forms part of the Government’s ongoing work to strengthen technical and vocational education pathways for 16–19-year-olds.

New Qualifications Announced

V Levels

The first V Levels will be introduced in:

• Accounting and Finance
• Digital Systems and Data
• Education

Foundation Certificates

New Foundation Certificates will be available in:

• Digital Systems and Data
• Education

Occupational Certificates

Occupational Certificates will be introduced in:

• Early Years Practitioner
• Culinary Skills
• Hospitality

These qualifications are designed to support a range of progression routes, helping young people develop the skills and knowledge needed for further study, apprenticeships and employment.

Further information and links to the published subject content can be found on the Government website: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/post-16-level-2-and-level-3-qualifications-2027-proposed-subject-content.

Funding Changes from August 2027

Alongside the publication of the new qualifications, the DfE has confirmed the list of qualifications that will have 16–19 funding approval removed from 1 August 2027.

The Government has also published policy statements relating to:

• Continued funding for Access to Higher Education Diplomas for learners aged 18 and over.
• Plans to explore the potential development of a new T Level in Habitat Management.
• Continued funding approval for larger qualifications in Land and Wildlife Management and Countryside Management.

More information is available here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/level-2-and-3-qualifications-to-have-16-to-19-funding-approval-removed-in-2027.

Support for Schools, Colleges and Careers Professionals

The DfE has also published a new Post-16 Pathways Support Pack, providing resources to help schools, colleges and careers professionals support learners in understanding the new qualifications and progression opportunities available.

The pack includes:

• Progression and pathway examples
• Explainer flyers
• Posters
• Videos and supporting materials for careers education, information, advice and guidance (CEIAG)

These resources are designed to support conversations with young people and parents about the range of post-16 options available from 2027 onwards.

Need Support or Have Questions?

Businesses, education providers and stakeholders who would like more information about T Levels and V Levels or support with industry placements can contact the T Level Ambassador Network at:

📧 hello@tlevelambassadors.co.uk

For further information about T Levels and technical education developments in Kent and Medway, keep an eye on the Kent & Medway LSIP website for future updates.