BTEC Nationals October Update
The Pause and Review of the level 3 reforms looms large as we enter October you can be assured that we will do everything we can to answer questions and keep you informed.
Level 3 Reform
Secretary of State Bridget Phillipson announces Pause and Review of the Level 3 reforms
In a significant development for the education sector, Bridget Phillipson has announced a one-year pause on the removal of funding for certain post-16 qualifications in England. This decision allows for a comprehensive review of the ongoing reforms and ensures that The DfE will place a one year pause on the removal of 16 to 19 funding from qualifications assessed as overlapping with T Levels, namely those in construction and the built environment, digital, education and early years, and health and science. These qualifications were originally scheduled to have their funding approval removed in the 16 to 19 offer after 31 July 2024 but will now continue to remain available up to 31 July 2025.
Pearson applauds the new Labour Government for their responsive approach and commitment to stability and progress in education. We remain dedicated to offering a broad spectrum of qualifications to support the diverse needs and aspirations of students.
Sign up for further updates as we continue to engage with the government review and advocate for the best outcomes for education providers and students alike.
Current BTEC Nationals in IT & Computing
The current BTEC Nationals all remain available for registration for this years intake and for certification in 2026.
Please be careful when making Registrations for the current qualifications to register for the largest size that the students would want to certificate with if they are staying for the full term of the program delivery.
The current reform status (which may change) means that registrations made in September 2025 to larger sizes may not be available, whereas the ability to drop down to a smaller size qualification will remain available.
BTEC Nationals AAQ Training Events
AAQ Getting Started events
Getting Started events will cover ways to Plan and Teach ​BTEC National AAQ in Computing and Information Technology.
These sessions are aimed at UK based teachers preparing to deliver the BTEC National (2025) in Computing and Information Technology.
These events can count as 1.5 Hours of CPD. You will receive a certificate of attendance the next working day after the live event. Please be aware that this event will be recorded and may be shared publicly.
| Qualification |
Date | Time | Registration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computing | 18/11/2024 | 16:00 - 17:30 | Register |
| Computing | 22/11/2024 | 13:00 - 14:30 | Register |
| Information Technology | 11/11/2024 | 16:00 - 17:30 | Register |
| Information Technology | 15/11/2024 | 13:00 - 14:30 | Register |
These live sessions will meet the following objectives:
- Centres can confidently plan the delivery of the new qualifications at Level 3, based on their and their learners' needs.
- Centres have a clear view on the underpinning knowledge required to deliver the units.
- Centres identify how to use internal assessment support materials to inform teaching and learning and understand the standard.
- Centres know where to find support, via the website or specific roles within Pearson.
The training provides a general run through of internal and external assessment.
Follow on training events
Internal and External assessment detail will be covered in our BTEC National AAQ live events which will follow in early 2025.
- Getting Ready to Assess Internal Units
- Preparing Your Learners for External Assessment
Subject advisor
Tim Brady
Computer Science and ICT Subject Advisor
