WJEC continues to lead the way in qualification reform for the Curriculum for Wales

We are delighted to announce that WJEC is the first awarding body to have qualifications approved as part of Wave 3 of the National 14-16 qualifications, with 4 VCSEs and 3 Foundation Qualifications approved already by Qualifications Wales.

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

“We are delighted to be the first awarding body to achieve approval from Qualifications Wales. This achievement reflects our rigorous approach to developing qualifications and our unwavering commitment to quality. Throughout the process, we have collaborated closely with educators and industry experts to ensure our qualifications reflect current practices and equip learners with the skills and knowledge that employers value.

Designed to complement our new GCSEs, our VCSEs provide learners with innovative pathways to explore new areas of interest, offering greater choice and encouraging consideration of a wide range of roles within their chosen industries. At the same time, our Foundation Qualifications are designed to empower every learner to succeed, build essential skills, and lay a strong foundation for future learning, life, and work.

I would like to thank our stakeholders for their continued engagement and invaluable contributions, helping to ensure these qualifications inspire learners and support them to succeed.”

Our new Made-for-Wales national qualifications form part of the third Wave of qualifications reform in Wales and include VCSEs, Foundation, Personal Project and Skills for Work and Life qualifications. This milestone marks a significant step forward in expanding high-quality, learner-centred pathways for young people across Wales.

Approved qualifications
The following specifications have been approved by Qualifications Wales for first teaching from September 2027:

Level 1 / 2 VCSEs

Built Environment
Creative and Media Production, and Technology
Hospitality and Catering
Travel and Tourism

Entry Level/Level 1 Foundation

Core Cymraeg
Cymraeg
Design and Technology

Please note that draft specifications will be published shortly. However, due to regulatory requirements, the final approved versions cannot be published until 1 September. To receive the latest updates, please subscribe to our mailing list.

Publication timetable
Our Qualifications Development Team is working quickly to address regulatory feedback on previously submitted qualifications, with the goal of securing their approval soon. We are also preparing to submit additional qualifications to Qualifications Wales for approval.

Schools and colleges will be notified by email and through our website when draft specifications are published. Final approved versions will be available from 1 September.

Support and guidance
We will shortly announce a comprehensive package of FREE support to assist with the delivery of these new qualifications. This will include:

High-quality digital resources
Professional learning opportunities

Later this term, we will also publish individual ‘Quick Guides’ outlining content, topics and assessment approaches for each subject.

In addition, our Regional Support Representative, Sophie Dobbs, is also available to provide face-to-face and online support. To discuss our qualifications or book a meeting, please email wave3@wjec.co.uk.

Further information
To find out more about our new suite of Made-for-Wales Wave 3 qualifications visit our bespoke web area.

If you have any questions, please contact us at wave3@wjec.co.uk