V Levels
Combine academic study with career-focused learning.
Shape your studies around your future
V Levels are new Level 3 vocational qualifications that will sit alongside A Levels and T Levels from September 2027.
Each V Level will be equivalent in size to one A Level, allowing you to combine practical, sector-focused learning with two complementary A Levels.
Together, your subjects will form a rounded study programme built around your interests and future ambitions.
At a glance
Level
Level 3
Duration
Two years
Starting
September 2027
Equivalent to
One A Level
What you will study
One V Level alongside two A Levels
Subjects we are offering
Education, Digital Systems and Data, and Accounting and Finance
Build a programme around your future
Our planned V Levels will be offered alongside carefully selected A Levels, helping you develop a relevant combination of academic knowledge and vocational understanding.
Education
Explore learning, education and child development while building a foundation for careers and further study involving children and young people.
Your indicative study programme
- Education V Level
- Psychology A Level
- Sociology A Level
Where it could take you
Teaching, early years, educational psychology, childhood studies, youth work and family support.
Digital Systems and Data
Develop an applied understanding of digital technology, systems and data while strengthening your analytical and problem-solving skills.
Your indicative study programme
- Digital Systems and Data V Level
- Computing Science A Level
- Mathematics A Level
Where it could take you
Software development, data analysis, cyber security, artificial intelligence and other digital technology careers.
Accounting and Finance
Explore how financial information supports organisations and decision-making while developing strong mathematical and commercial knowledge.
Your indicative study programme
- Accounting and Finance V Level
- Mathematics A Level
- Business A Level
Where it could take you
Accountancy, banking, financial services, business management and financial analysis.
These combinations are indicative and may change as qualification specifications, entry requirements and timetabling arrangements are finalised.
Who are V Levels for?
A V Level could suit you if:
• you have an idea of the sector or profession you may want to enter, even if you have not chosen a specific job;
• you want your subjects to connect more clearly with your future plans;
• you enjoy learning through practical applications and real-world contexts;
• you are thinking about university, a higher or degree apprenticeship, further professional study or employment.
Our Information Team can help you compare the different routes and choose the programme that best supports your ambitions.
Compare your options
| V Levels | A Levels | T Levels | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type of learning | Broad, vocational and applied | Academic and subject-based | Technical and occupational |
| Size | Each V Level is the same size as one A Level | Each qualification represents one subject | A full programme broadly equivalent in size to three A Levels |
| How they are studied | One V Level alongside two A Levels across two years | Usually studied as a programme of three subjects | Studied as one substantial technical programme |
| Career focus | Explores a sector without preparing for one specific occupation | Develops knowledge within academic subjects | Develops knowledge and skills for a particular occupational route |
| Industry placement | No substantial industry placement required | Not normally required | Includes a substantial industry placement |
| Possible next steps | University, higher study, apprenticeships or employment | University, higher study, apprenticeships or employment | Employment, apprenticeships or higher education |
Frequently Asked Questions
When will V Levels begin?
The first V Levels are planned to begin in September 2027.Which V Levels will Barnsley College offer?
We plan to offer the first three nationally confirmed subjects:- Education
- Digital Systems and Data
- Accounting and Finance
Is a V Level equivalent to an A Level?
A V Level will be a Level 3 qualification with 360 guided learning hours, making it the same teaching size as one A Level.National decisions about grading and UCAS Tariff points are still being finalised. We will publish this information when it has been confirmed.
Can I study a V Level alongside A Levels?
Yes. This flexibility is one of the main features of V Levels.At Barnsley Sixth Form College, we intend to combine each V Level with two suitable A Levels to create a coherent programme linked to particular sectors and career ambitions.
Do I need to know exactly which job I want?
No. V Levels are intended for students who are interested in a broad sector but are not yet ready to specialise in one occupation.For example, you may know that you want to work with children without having decided whether you want to become a teacher, educational psychologist, early years professional or youth worker.
How will V Levels be assessed?
Detailed assessment arrangements are being finalised nationally. V Levels will focus on applied learning, so you can expect to use your knowledge in practical and work-related contexts rather than learning only through academic theory.We will provide a full breakdown of examinations and other assessments once the final qualification specifications are available.
Will I complete an industry placement?
V Levels will not require the substantial industry placement included within a T Level.Your wider programme may still include opportunities to engage with employers, explore workplaces and apply your learning to realistic projects. Details will be confirmed as our programmes are developed.
Can a V Level lead to university?
V Levels are being designed to support progression to Higher Education (university), Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs) and Higher or Degree Apprenticeships, as well as employment.The Department for Education is working with UCAS, universities and awarding organisations to establish recognition and progression routes. You should always check the individual entry requirements for any university course you are considering.
Will V Levels replace BTECs and other vocational qualifications?
V Levels form part of national reforms intended to simplify post-16 education. Many existing vocational qualifications will have their public funding withdrawn as V Levels are introduced, although some specialist qualifications may remain.Students beginning their studies before September 2027 will continue to follow the qualifications available for their year of entry.
What will the entry requirements be?
As these programmes will include two A Levels, applicants will need to meet Barnsley Sixth Form College’s general entry requirements and any requirements attached to their chosen A Level subjects.Any additional V Level requirements will be published when the final qualification specifications are available.
