No, not all OCR qualifications are in the programme builder. It features the substantive Level 3 vocational qualifications currently on offer from OCR but the additional qualifications are selected from a range. Other qualifications not found in the programme builder could be acceptable in 16-19 study programmes.
We are currently engaged in the wide-ranging programme of reform to both academic and vocational qualifications, initiated by the government. As changes to the content and assessment of both Cambridge Technicals, GCSEs and A Levels are rolled out over the next few years, we have included as much information as we can about new versions of the qualifications, as it is confirmed, so you can use the programme builder to plan for the future.
Key points about changes to Cambridge Technicals
Launching for first teaching September 2016, our new Cambridge Technicals will allow your students to achieve their potential and progress to the next stage of their lives, whether it be Higher Education, an apprenticeship, or employment.
From September 2014, only substantive qualifications that meet government defined criteria count in KS5 performance tables.
The 2016 Cambridge Technicals suite has been designed to meet the DfE’s Technical Guidance for inclusion on the KS5 performance points list from 2018, this includes a minimum percentage of mandatory content and a minimum percentage of externally assessed units.
Cambridge Technicals in Engineering is part of the 2016 suite but will be available for first teaching from 2015 and will meet requirements for inclusion on the KS5 performance points list from 2017. The 2012 Cambridge Technicals suite is also included in the programme builder. This suite does not meet the Department for Educations Technical Guidance – so it doesn't gain Key Stage Performance Points after 2017.
Schools and colleges remain free to offer any qualifications that have section 96 approval under the Learning and Skills Act (2000) for teaching to students aged 16-18, even if these qualifications are not recognised in performance tables. DfE publishes achievement data for all qualifications taken by 16-19 year olds on an annual basis.
Read more about Cambridge Technicals (2016 suite) reform
Key points about changes to A Levels
Our extensive range of AS and A Level subjects have been included in the additional qualifications section. Many learners follow a combined or mixed pathway with academic subjects studied alongside a vocational core aim.
The redevelopment of our A level range will happen in a number of stages, so some new specifications have been accredited, some are submitted but not yet accredited and some are in planning and development. We have indicated in the programme builder if the particular qualification is newly launched or is a current specification that is not yet replaced.
Read more about AS and A Level reform