Recommendation 3

The Department has not provided clarity on how T Levels align with other technical qualifications and career pathways. After pausing the previous government’s decision to defund qualifications overlapping with T Levels, in December 2024 the new government announced funding would continue for certain technical qualifications until 2027. The Department believes too many overlapping qualifications creates confusion for students and confirmed further funding decisions will be made following the Curriculum and Assessment Review expected in Autumn 2025. In February 2024, there were 4,337 level 3 qualifications, with 39% being vocational. In 2023, 2% of 16- to 17-year-olds were taking T Levels. The Department has since announced that students will no longer be able to enrol on either the Onsite Construction and Healthcare Science T Levels, risking confidence amongst students, teachers, colleges and employers. Students need clarity on which qualification, or combination of qualifications, best suits their chosen career route. This is particularly true for those interested in hair and beauty and catering where T Levels will no-longer be developed. 4 recommendation The Department should set out publicly, for students, colleges and teachers, how T Levels fit with other funded qualifications, so students understand their route into skilled professions.