Occupational Certificates

In May 2026 (20th May 2026), DfE announced two new qualifications for lower attaining students to support them to progress beyond GCSE:

Occupational Certificates and Foundation Certificates
For 16-year-olds who are not ready to progress beyond GCSEs due to lower attainment, there are two new qualifications:

Occupational Certificates: two-year courses for those who want to get into work or an apprenticeship but need support to achieve English and Maths GCSEs.
Foundation Certificates: one-year courses for students who want to progress to A-levels, T-levels or V-levels but need extra support to pass their GCSEs.

From 2028 there will be new Occupation Certificates in bricklaying, painting, plumbing, accounts and finance, and adult care worker.

In April 2026 DfE set out its intention to introduce Occupational Certificates at level 2. These will be 2-year qualifications for students who want to progress into employment or an apprenticeship but need to develop their skills before doing so. They will form part of a wider 2-year occupational pathway, where students may also take other qualifications alongside, such as English and maths.

These will range in size between 540 and 720 GLH. The first Occupational Certificates will be available from September 2027 in culinary skills, hospitality (accommodation), hospitality (food and beverage), and early years practitioner. More subjects will follow over time.

Below are articles about Occupational Certificates from FE News.