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Blog posted by: Lucy Thompson, Product Manager, Monday 19 February 2018.

This month, we wrote to you to let you know about some changes that the Department for Education (DfE) had made in relation to qualifications on the published list of approved qualifications, for key stage 4 and key stage 5.

The decision to suspend the approvals process for technical qualifications means that there will be no new qualifications available after those on the 2020 performance tables. 

In principle, this will help to support schools with planning and curriculum preparation, as they will have a stable market from which to choose. However, it is important to be wary that no guidelines have been issued regarding the ‘annual review’ of qualifications, which could see qualifications removed, and choice limited. It’s important that this occurs at the right time – completing in December will ensure adequate time is provided for school to plan their delivery for the following September.

We are not concerned that our qualifications will be affected. Technical guidance remains fixed, so reviews should only consider currency and validity. As we have refreshed our V-Certs in close consultation with schools and industry experts, we are confident that they will stand up to any review process.

We are continuing to work closely with the DfE to make recommendations about the review process. We’ve created a dedicated area of our website where you’ll find up to date information on the submissions process and our plans for 2020 and beyond. 

Find out more.