Post-16 Level 2 Vocational qualifications | Pearson qualifications

Post-16 Level 2 Vocational qualifications

Level 2 qualifications support 16–19-year-olds and adult learners to take confident steps towards their chosen careers. Each qualification helps learners build the knowledge, skills and behaviours they need to progress to further study, an apprenticeship or employment. 

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This page provides you with:

  • the latest information about the post-16 qualification reform
  • a summary of the qualifications available now
  • a timeline for the future landscape

View our post-16 qualifications review page for latest updates

 

Post-16 reform: Introduction of new qualifications

The Department for Education has published its post‑16 pathways implementation plan. 

From 2027 the new Level 2 Foundation Certificates and Occupational Certificates will be introduced, with a phased rollout by subject area which will replace current Level 2 vocational qualifications and the T Level foundation year.  

Download our Guide to Funding and Support

We’ve included below a timeline summarising the implementation of these new qualifications:
2027/28

Occupational Certificates

  • Catering and Hospitality
  • Education and Early Years

Foundation Certificates

  • Digital
  • Education and Early Years
2028/29

Occupational certificates

  • Business and Administration
  • Care Services
  • Construction and the Built
    Environment
  • Digital
  • Engineering and Manufacturing
  • Finance and Administration
  • Health and Science
  • Sports and Leisure

Foundation certificates

  • Business, Administration and Law
  • Care Services
  • Construction and the Built
    Environment
  • Engineering and Manufacturing
  • Health and Science
  • Sports, Fitness and Exercise
    Science
2029/30

Occupational certificates

  •  Agriculture, Environmental and Animal Care
  • Hair and Beauty
  • Horticulture and Floristry

Foundation certificates

  • Agriculture, Environmental and Animal Care
  • Catering and Hospitality
  • Hair and Beauty
  • Protective Services
2030/31

Occupational certificates

  • Art and Performing Arts
  • Creative and Design
  • Travel and Tourism


Withdrawal of post-16 level 2 BTEC qualifications  

As the reformed qualifications are introduced, the current, relevant BTEC Firsts, BTEC Technicals and BTEC Skills qualifications will be withdrawn as they will no longer be eligible for funding. These withdrawals apply across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.  

Please refer to your dedicated funding guide:


View the current qualifications in your sector

We have four different qualification suites available:

See list below for what is currently available in the various sectors.

Useful links

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Delivering BTEC in Wales or Northern Ireland

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If you would like to speak to us or sign up to receive notifications from us about our Post-16 Level 2 qualifications.

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