Skip to content
13 April 2026

Author: Billy Camden

MPs launch inquiry into ‘effectiveness’ of post-16 qualifications

A new inquiry into the “effectiveness” of post-16 qualifications like A-levels, T Levels, BTECs and apprenticeships has been launched by the House of Commons education committee. MPs on the committee will explore whether a new baccalaureate system that would “allow young people to study a greater blend of academic and vocational subjects” should be introduced […]

Level 3 adult offer to be widened for low earners

The government is set to allow people on low wages to take multiple level 3 qualifications available through the prime minister’s lifetime skills guarantee for free. Education secretary Nadhim Zahawi announced at the Association of Colleges conference the extension of the policy would be trialled from next April. He said: “In a trial from next […]

Traineeships flop: less than half 16-18 expansion cash allocated

Less than half of the £30 million earmarked for the government’s 16-to-18 traineeships market entry exercise is set to be awarded, FE Week understands. Sixty training providers have won contracts of between £100,000 and £300,000 in the procurement that was finally launched at the end of September. Outcomes are being communicated to bidders this week […]

‘Wrong message’: leaders criticise ending of T Level maths and English requirement

Axing the requirement for T Level students to achieve GCSE-level English and maths by the end of their course risks devaluing the brand of the new qualifications, sector leaders have warned. Education secretary Nadhim Zahawi revealed the move this week, saying it has been made after the Department for Education “consistently” heard of some students […]

Ofsted handed £24m to inspect all schools, colleges and providers by 2025

Ofsted has bagged an extra £24 million from government to inspect every school, college and further education provider by summer 2025. For colleges specifically, they will receive a full inspection from September 2022 regardless of whether they are rated ‘good’ or ‘outstanding’. These colleges would typically receive a short inspection. The inspections will also be […]