EAUC response to DfE's post-16 level 3 and below pathways consultation
EAUC’s response to the Department for Education’s Post-16 Level 3 and below pathways consultation sets out how reform of qualifications and pathways can better support a joined-up, future-facing post-16 system that equips all learners for a fair and sustainable economy. It focuses on the need for sustainability to be embedded explicitly across V Levels, Foundation Certificates and Occupational Certificates in ways that are proportionate, subject-relevant and solutions-focused — developing not only knowledge, but the skills and behaviours learners will need in employment and everyday life.
The submission highlights strong learner demand for sustainability to be integrated across courses, alongside clear signals from employers and industry about the growing importance of sustainability and green skills across sectors. It also emphasises the importance of coherent information, advice and guidance (IAG), and of designing pathways and qualifications to support learner mobility, progression and equity — including through recognition of prior learning and effective transition points.
Drawing on EAUC’s sector-wide membership and partnerships, as well as evidence from national policy and quality frameworks, the response recommends practical steps to improve consistency and quality across awarding organisations, including stronger expectations within qualification design and assurance processes, and better support for cross-provider collaboration so reforms are deliverable locally and inclusively.
| 12 January 2026 | |
| Resource | |
| Post-16 level 3 and below pathways consultation response.pdf | |
| Charlotte Bonner |
