Study Programmes for 16- to 19-year-olds

Government response to consultation and plans for implementation

a policy document published by the Department for Education (ref: 00074-2012)

Study Programmes will extend the benefits of challenging and substantial vocational qualifications enjoyed by many students taking academic programmes to those studying more vocational subjects. The Government’s new principles for Study Programmes are central to the reform of 16-19 education.

A public consultation on Study Programmes for 16- to 19-year-olds was completed on 4 January 2012. The majority of respondents to the consultation welcomed the proposals and agreed with the principles presented and in particular, the emphasis on allowing schools, colleges and other training providers flexibility to tailor programmes to meet the needs of students.

This document sets out the government’s response to the consultation and is intended to guide the rationale and quality standards for the development of ‘good’ Study Programmes. It should be read alongside the response to the parallel 16-19 funding formula review consultation.

Schools, colleges and other providers are expected to introduce Study Programmes from September 2013 and to begin their planning from September 2012. The new approach to Study Programmes does not impact on the design of Apprenticeships because they already follow the key principles of the new approach.

Visit the DfE website for more information

Full report (PDF 18pp)
Equality Impact Assessment (PDF 22pp)

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