The Department for Education (DfE) is reforming Level 2 technical and vocational qualifications.
This page explains what we know so far, what is still to come, and how we can support you through the transition.
For first teach in 2027 (Tranche 1), we are planning to offer a Level 2 Foundation Certificate in:
What are Level 2 Foundation certificates?
Level 2 foundation certificates are applied vocational qualifications for 16–19 learners in England.
They are designed for learners not yet ready to move directly to Level 3 study or skilled employment. These qualifications will help build knowledge, confidence and essential skills before progressing.
Foundation Certificates compared with Occupational Certificates
DfE reforms introduce two routes within Level 2 vocational study:
Foundation certificates
- Size: 240–300 guided learning hours (around 1 year), set by the DfE
- Focus: Broad vocational learning, typically taken alongside GCSE resits
- Work placement: Not required
- Progression: Prepares learners to move on to Level 3 qualifications
Occupational certificates
- Size: 600–750 guided learning hours (around 2 years)
- Focus: Specialist, career-focused qualifications that lead directly into employment or further technical study
- Work placement: Likely required (to be confirmed)
- Progression: Into specific occupations, apprenticeships or further training
Key date and what’s confirmed so far
- First teaching: September 2027
- DfE subject content confirmed: July 2026 (DfE)
- Ofqual assessment approach published: September 2026 (Ofqual)
We will keep this timeline updated as more details are confirmed.
How to prepare your centre now
You do not need to change everything immediately. Our current advice:
- Download our transition toolkit for practical planning
- Audit current provision and consider which learners may benefit from Level 2 foundation certificates
- Share this update with colleagues and stakeholders
Assessment, accessibility and SEND
Assessment arrangements for Foundation Certificates will be set by Ofqual in 2026. Current regulatory expectations include:
- Accessibility:Assessments designed for all learners
- SEND considerations: Fair, inclusive assessment design
- Applied approach: Assessment grounded in practical learning.
We will share regulatory updates as soon as they are confirmed.
Frequently asked questions
When will teaching start?
Cambridge OCR intends to offer Level 2 foundation certificates from September 2027, subject to DfE and Ofqual approval.
What is the difference between a foundation certificate and an occupational certificate?
Foundation certificates are typically one-year programmes supporting progression to Level 3. Occupational certificates are larger two-year qualifications focused on specific jobs or sectors.
Do I need to make changes now?
No immediate changes are needed. Use our transition toolkit to plan for gradual implementation.