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.
Top priorities
We believe that the implementation of T levels would be strengthened by:
- A move away from the plans to introduce a single AO licence for T levels, which willresult in market monopoly situations that will not be in the best interests of learners, providers or technical education.
- A focus on, and commitment to, the future stability of the technical education system, ceasing the continuation of frequent significant policy change which has occurred in recent times
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
