The recent schools white paper was essentially geared at simplifying the system by making them all academies.
It seems that simplification is planned for post-16 academic and vocational learning.
The FE sector’s very own skills white paper will strip away many post-16 qualifications to make way for the introduction of 15 technical and professional education (TPE) routes.
But in an effort to funnel young people into a university or recognised work-related route the government should avoid creating a two-tier system and restricting choice.
It should think very carefully about provision below level two as well as bridging courses between the pathways at level two and beyond.
And in the creation of 15 routes, Ministers could go as far to seek simplification in accreditation, by tendering for a single awarding organisation for each.
It was considered by the previous Secretary of State for the new GCSES and A Levels, but quickly dropped in 2013.
So this might be a once in a generation opportunity to reorganise who accredits TPE routes, but surely the single point of failure problem is unsurmountable?
Your thoughts