Ofqual has warned upcoming reviews of large swathes of qualifications could place “significant loading” on the sector.

The body said with the need to review level 2 qualifications, Tech Levels, applied generals and level 4 and 5 qualifications - in addition to the introduction of T levels - it was important to consider the education system’s capacity for change in regard to the sequencing of these potential reforms.

In its response to the government’s consultation on the introduction of T levels, Ofqual stated: “The wide-ranging implications of these reviews will clearly need careful consideration. Any subsequent reform would place significant loading on the sector. This is not just an issue for colleges and schools. It also has implications for the capacity of the organisations leading the programmes.”

T levels risk

Ofqual also warned the government of the risks related to the single provider model for awarding qualifications.

“We have advised on, and government is aware of and managing, the risks related to the single provider model,” the response stated. “We will take a close interest in transitional arrangements between current qualifications and the T level programme to ensure that learners are not disadvantaged and there is sufficient clarity about the qualification system.

“We will also look carefully at the impact of this reform programme on the wider regulated qualification market with an aim of mitigating and managing, as far as possible, any resulting systemic risks.”

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