T Levels consultation launched
01 December 2017
The DfE has unveiled its long-awaited proposals for the implementation of T Level programmes.
The 48-page DfE consultation sets out how the government intends to move forward with T Levels so that they meet the aims of the Sainsbury Report and the Post-16 Skills Plan, which heralded radical reforms to England’s technical education system.
Offering “two world-class choices: A Levels and T Levels” after the age of 16, according to the proposals, each T Level programme will consist of 5 “components”:
- An approved technical qualification awarded by a licensed awarding body with core and occupational specialism parts and equal to the size of 3 A Levels
- An external work placement of 45-60 days in duration, not necessarily in one block
- Maths, English and digital requirements. The maths and English GCSE or Functional Skills qualification can be achieved with any awarding body.
- Any other occupation-specific requirements/qualifications, as set out by the relevant T Level panel
- Any further employability, enrichment and pastoral provision.
Proposals in the consultation also cover: HE/FE endorsement; the transition year; delivery; assessment; grading; certification; meeting local skills needs; Level 2 qualifications; adult learners; quality assurance; regulation; accountability measures; and procurement and contracting for awarding bodies.
The DfE expects to reduce the number of currently funded qualifications, and will also consider the role of Applied General Qualifications as part of the consultation.
The consultation runs in parallel with the current review of
higher level vocational qualifications.
A separate “engagement exercise” on the content of occupational maps is to follow.