Cambridge OCR has launched two first-of-their-kind vocational qualifications in Mental Health: Individuals and Society, and Cyber Security and Networks.

These Level 3 Cambridge Advanced Nationals give students aged 16 and above the chance to develop practical knowledge and skills in sectors where demand is rapidly outstripping supply. The new qualifications address key societal and technological priorities and will open up valuable opportunities for further study and careers, enabling students to make a real difference in society.

Both qualifications have been officially approved by the Department for Education and will be funded for teaching from the 2026 academic year.

Myles McGinley, Managing Director of Cambridge OCR, said: “Qualifications need to evolve to meet the changing needs of students and society.”

Mental Health: Individuals and Society

"Mental health really matters, and education can play a significant role in understanding and mitigating the challenge, “ Myles said. “We need to equip a new generation ready to help society deal more effectively with it, and, in many cases, to forge careers as mental health professionals.”

This pioneering new qualification represents a clear step forward in mental health education and the understanding of this significant societal issue. With one in four people in England experiencing a mental health problem each year, there is a growing need for professionals to support well-being, reduce stigma, and promote early intervention.

Students can study the Certificate (180 Guided Learning Hours, equivalent to an AS Level) or the Extended Certificate (360 Guided Learning Hours, equivalent to an A Level). The qualification provides pathways into higher education and careers in mental health, social care, and related sectors, while giving students the knowledge and skills to make a positive difference on both individuals and wider society.

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Cyber Security and Networks

Managing Director Myles McGinley said: "Cybersecurity is a global challenge that has an enormous impact on industry, society and geopolitics, and costs our economy billions of pounds each year. Education organisations can help step up to that challenge.

"We need ambitious young people who can step up to help understand and defend against cyber threats, which cost our economy tens of billions of pounds each year. This qualification is a tremendous opportunity for young people to gain the knowledge and skills required to help defend against future cyber threats.” 

The UK is facing a growing shortage of cyber security professionals as industries undergo rapid digital transformation and the threat of cyber attacks increases. Research shows that 44% of UK businesses have skills gaps in basic technical areas, while over a quarter lack advanced expertise such as penetration testing. Although the number of cyber security graduates has risen by 34% in recent years, demand continues to outstrip supply.

The new Cambridge Advanced National in Cyber Security and Networks gives students the chance to build essential technical skills, from networking to practical cyber security applications, and prepares them for further study or careers in this fast growing and high-demand sector.

It is offered as a Certificate (150 Guided Learning Hours, equivalent to an AS Level) or Extended Certificate (360 Guided Learning Hours, equivalent to an A Level).

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