Teenagers in England will be able to take GCSEs in vocational subjects – that could include digital tech and building and construction – from September 2029. These qualifications will be taken in schools by 14-16-year-olds, with the subjects decided in consultation with regional and local leaders. The new policy also includes a requirement for work experience, which has not been compulsory for under-16s since 2012.

But the broadening of the curriculum to allow for vocational qualifications from the age of 14 is not new. Technical Awards are currently offered by nine in ten schools with similar subjects to those suggested for vocational GCSEs. Technical awards are designed explicitly for 14-16 year olds to undertake applied study of a sector or broad occupational group, such as leisure, travel and tourism. Assessment must include an exam that makes up at least 40% of the overall mark. The resulting qualification counts in performance tables as equivalent to one GCSE.

The government’s new proposals differ from the current system because the content for the vocational GCSEs will be set nationally. Content for existing Technical Awards is set by awarding organisations. The decision about which vocational GCSEs will be offered in an area will be led by local areas themselves.

These differences, alongside the requirement for work experience, signal a clearer link to the local labour market. In addition, content being set at a national level could mean that it is more aligned with occupational standards. These are profiles........

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