Background
The Government consulted on proposals to reform post-16 education pathways at Level 3 and below, with the aim of simplifying vocational qualifications and creating clearer routes into further study and employment.
The consultation sought views on a new qualifications framework including V Levels, Foundation Certificates and Occupational Certificates. The proposals are intended to provide clearer progression routes for young people, improve links between education and employment, and ensure qualifications better reflect the skills needs of employers.
The FMB's response focuses on the construction sector and the need for vocational qualifications that provide practical, employer-led pathways into skilled trades. The response argues that reforms should support progression into apprenticeships and employment, reflect the realities of construction careers, and ensure employers play a central role in shaping qualification content and standards.
Executive summary
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The FMB supports simplifying vocational qualifications and creating clearer pathways for young people into construction careers.
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Construction V Levels should be introduced at Level 2, providing a broad introduction to the sector before students progress to trade-specific Level 3 qualifications or apprenticeships.
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Qualification content must be developed in partnership with employers to ensure students gain the skills, knowledge and behaviours that industry needs.
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Career guidance should clearly explain progression routes and employment opportunities, helping to improve perceptions of construction careers among young people.
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The challenges experienced by construction T Levels, particularly around securing work placements, should be considered when developing new qualifications.
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Foundation Certificates should support progression into employment as well as further study, particularly for young people who may not be ready for higher-level qualifications.
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English and maths teaching should be contextualised to construction, helping students understand how these skills apply in the workplace.
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Occupational Certificates should include construction-specific content such as health and safety, competency requirements and awareness of the Building Safety Act.
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Core content should place greater emphasis on employability skills, professional behaviours, communication, teamwork and understanding how construction businesses operate.
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Qualifications should better prepare students for modern construction by including topics such as retrofit, sustainability, airtightness, building regulations and waste management.
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The FMB highlights the value of employer-led initiatives such as Build Academy, which combine practical training, soft skills development and employment opportunities.
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Employers should remain at the centre of qualification design, implementation and future reforms to ensure training reflects the needs of the construction industry.
