Overall position
We support the Government?s commitment to a world-class, rigorous technical education system for learners in England. T levels offer a real opportunity to develop high quality technical education programmes which offer post-16 learners an attractive alternative to A levels.
Action we have taken
Since the reforms started, we have
- Written to the Minister for Apprenticeships and Skills to outline our concerns about T levels and to seek the opportunity for more detailed discussion. The letter from our Chair can be found here: FAB letter to Anne Milton and the response from the Minister can be found here: Letter from Anne Milton to FAB
- Established regular meetings between our Board and senior DfE representatives where strategic issues can be raised and solutions-based actions sought.
- In addition to member consultation events, worked with DfE to deliver 3 sets of workshops to support dialogue between the DfE?s implementation team and our members.
- Taken robust action to highlight our concerns about T levels, the implementation timescales and process, to the government and made positive steps towards resetting the relationship between government and the awarding sector.
Our goal
To have a post-16 technical education system that is valued and respected by learners, employers and government and which provides post-16 learners with access to a range of high quality qualifications which support their progression in to work and/or further study. This is achievable through the operation of a competitive awarding market which stimulates innovation and continuous improvement.
Key policy documents
- FAB Response to DfE Implementation of T level Programmes Consultation
- FAB Proposals on the implementation of key recommendations in The Report of the Independent Panel on Technical Education and the Post-16 Skills Plan.
- FAB Response to the Select Committee on Economic Affairs, September 2017
- Regulation of Technical Qualifications
- Ofqual consultation on the Rules and Guidance for Technical Qualifications