Review of Post-16 Qualifications at Level 2 and below in England Government Consultation Analysis
Task
In March 2022, the Department for Education (DfE) launched a public consultation to gather views on the proposals to reform post-16 qualifications at Level 2 and below.
At present, the Level 2 and below qualifications landscape is complex to navigate, with a high volume of qualifications on offer. In May 2020, there were around 8,000 qualifications approved for funding at level 2 and below, the majority being technical or vocational qualifications.
The government has already streamlined the landscape by removing funding for nearly 3,700 of these qualifications, which have had low or no enrolments in each of the last three funding years. Whilst many of the remaining qualifications are felt to be of a high standard, the large quantity available makes it difficult for students, employers, and providers to know which qualifications are high quality and will lead to good outcomes.
The review aimed to simplify the system to make it easier for all those with an interest in qualifications at these levels to understand. It also aimed to ensure that all qualifications available within the new landscape are high quality and have a clear purpose, giving students the knowledge and skills to achieve positive outcomes, whether they are progressing to further study, on to an apprenticeship, traineeship or supported internship, or into employment.
A total of 410 online and emailed responses to the consultation were received by the DfE, which TONIC were commissioned to analyse.
TONIC’s Approach
43% of respondents were on behalf of an organisation, representing the views of the organisation as a whole, and 55% of responses were received from individuals expressing their personal viewpoint.
The analysis of the consultation included:
Reviewing the quantity of closed responses to each question in the consultation.
Thematic analysis covering key themes – some responses were coded to more than one theme. The responses received by email also often combined responses into areas of specific interest.
It’s important to note that the consultation generated a high level of interest, with a variety of opinions expressed and some questions produced a higher response rate than others.
Outcome
A report was produced that summarised the responses received to the public consultation via the online questionnaire, email responses, and topics raised at stakeholder events during the period in which the consultation was open. This included the percentages quoted of those who agree or disagree with specific proposals.
Respondents broadly supported the government's proposals to fund qualifications that support progression to Level 3, occupational entry, and cross-sectoral skills. Several adjustments were made based on the feedback received:
Flexibility and Structure: The government agreed to allow more flexibility in qualification duration, enabling some programmes to be completed in under two years. It also supported smaller, modular qualifications to increase accessibility for adults and learners with varying needs.
Vocational Taster Options: For entry-level qualifications, the government introduced funding for ‘vocational taster’ courses to help students explore different industries.
Implementation Timeline: The timeline for implementing new qualifications was postponed, with the first teaching set for 2025 to ensure sufficient preparation time.
Specialist and Cross-Sectoral Skills: Funding will continue for certain specialised and cross-sectoral qualifications, including performing arts and project qualifications, recognising their value for creative and technical skills development.
Overall, the consultation underscored a commitment to creating a clear, adaptable qualification system responsive to both student and employer needs.