Third Report - The future of post-16 qualifications

The government rejects fast-tracking destination data for T Level students, stating it is not possible due to the complex data matching process required, which would result in incomplete information. They confirm that data is already made available at the earliest opportunity, with the first cohort's survey findings due in late 2023/early 2024.

The government explicitly rejects reinstating the employer incentive fund, stating it was a short-term COVID-19 response and not a sustainable model. Instead, it highlights the recently launched £12m Employer Support Fund designed to compensate employers for placement costs.

The government explains the rationale behind its post-16 education reforms, stating it has already streamlined qualifications and removed funding from courses overlapping with T Levels. It expresses confidence that these reforms will increase outcomes and provide necessary skills, thus rejecting the concern that they risk narrowing opportunities.

The government rejected the committee's view on the distinct purpose and social mobility role of Applied General Qualifications. It stated that many existing qualifications have low enrolments, are not employer-led, and are less effective than A Levels for university progression, reiterating its commitment to reforms.

The government rejected the idea of making employer placement success and improved equality outcomes prerequisites for scrapping further Applied General Qualifications. It instead detailed ongoing initiatives, including a £12m employer support fund and new services, aimed at strengthening T Level placements and ensuring their success.

The government rejected the recommendation to place a moratorium on defunding Applied General Qualifications. It reiterated its rationale for reforming Level 3 qualifications, stating that many existing programs have low enrolments, are not employer-led, and are less effective than A Levels for university progression.

The government rejects the committee's assertion, stating it has not said it will withdraw funding for the IB Career Related Programme (CRP). It clarifies that it will continue to fund the IB Diploma and explains how different components of the CRP could still be approved for funding if they meet published criteria.

The government rejected the premise of the recommendation by stating it has not decided to withdraw funding for the IB Careers Programme. It clarified that components of the programme could continue to be funded if they meet new qualification criteria for alternative academic qualifications.

The government rejects the premise of narrow post-16 education, stating it is already delivering reforms for a breadth of high-quality options, including A Levels, T Levels (with scope for an additional A level), and apprenticeships. It also highlights the Prime Minister's mission for all young people to study maths to age 18.

The government rejected the recommendation to establish an independent expert panel to review a baccalaureate model, stating it is already delivering reforms to ensure high-quality options and defending its current post-16 specialisation approach. It also rejected a wholesale review of 16-19 funding, stating it would continue to keep funding under review and highlighted existing support for disadvantaged students.