WJEC becomes first awarding body to have full suite of Wave 3 qualifications approved

We are delighted to announce that WJEC has become the first awarding body to have its full suite of Wave 3 Made-for-Wales qualifications approved by Qualifications Wales. These qualifications will be available for first teaching from September 2027. 

This significant milestone marks the completion of our third wave of qualification development, reinforcing our commitment to delivering high-quality, learner-centred qualifications that meet the needs of schools, colleges, learners and employers across Wales. 

Commenting on this significant achievement, Ian Morgan, Chief Executive of WJEC, said: 

"We are delighted to be the first awarding body to receive approval from Qualifications Wales for our full suite of Wave 3 qualifications. This milestone reflects the strength of our qualification development process and our unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality qualifications for learners across Wales.  Throughout the development process, we have worked in close partnership with educators, employers and industry experts to ensure our qualifications reflect current practice and equip learners with the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to progress to further learning, employment and training.

Our new qualifications have been designed to meet the diverse needs of learners. Our VCSEs will sit alongside our new GCSEs, providing opportunities to explore vocational pathways and develop industry-relevant skills. Our Foundation Qualifications support learners to build confidence and establish strong foundations for future success. Personal Project qualifications encourage learners to develop and demonstrate the skills that will support their future pathways, while our Skills for Life and Skills for Work qualifications provide flexible and meaningful opportunities that recognise individual strengths and prepare learners for life beyond school. 

I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to this achievement. The continued support, insight and expertise of our stakeholders have been instrumental in helping us develop qualifications that will inspire learners and support their success for years to come." 

Supporting the next phase of qualification reform 

Our new Made-for-Wales qualifications form part of Wave 3 of the National 14–16 Qualifications programme and include: 

Together, these qualifications will provide learners with broader pathways, greater choice and high-quality opportunities to develop the knowledge and skills they need for the future. 

Approved specifications

In line with regulatory requirements, we will continue to publish the remaining draft specifications throughout August. From 1 September, approved specifications will be available, giving centres a full 12 months to prepare ahead of first teaching. 

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Comprehensive support for centres 

To support the successful delivery of these new qualifications, we have developed a comprehensive package of bilingual support, including: