16-19 Study Programmes

The DfE has created these programmes to "maximise the potential of young people (16-19) to progress onto higher education and/or skilled employment by ensuring that vocational routes to higher education and employment are seen as high quality and a genuine alternative to academic routes.” (Department for Education, January 2013)

The Study Programme has three key elements:

1. A substantial qualification, e.g. BTEC First (Level 2), BTEC National (Level 3) or A levels
2. Working towards Level 2 in maths and English (if a learner is not already at this level)
3. A work experience or other work-preparation programme.

The DfE’s aim is to ensure learners achieve as high a level of qualification as possible. Most students in this age range study A levels or a level 2 or 3 vocational qualification, so this requirement shouldn’t have a huge effect, although foundation learners may be affected.

Curriculum models

To show how these study programmes might be timetabled, we've developed sample curriculum models for typical learners at level 1, 2 or 3:

English and maths options

To help you understand the new requirements around Study Programmes, we've published a useful guide to the appropriate English and mathematics options for different types of learner. 

Funding

The main issue for providers of 16-19 education will be the changes to funding arrangements. Funding will no longer be based on the GLH (guided learning hours) of the qualifications that students take, but the PLH (planned learning hours).

PLH must be ‘planned, organised and evidenced’; this doesn’t mean every hour must be face-to-face teaching, but any self-study must be directed and evidenced.

PLH can include time spent on work experience or a placement, as well as non-qualification activities such as tutor time, work preparation or completing UCAS applications.