Fizzy Fish

I certainly don't think it's a bad idea to give people recognition for on the job training/experience, or the opportunity to take a more practical/job orientated qualification, though I'm not quite clear how these fit with things like NVQs which are already out there.

At a guess they're trying to simplify the system for older teens into one type of qualification, and also give more vocational qualifications a higher status.

It could work that way, or it could bring down the perceived value of A Levels - will probably depend on how tough/useful the courses turn out to be.