As a parent, helping your child choose the right qualifications can feel overwhelming. There are a few new options available this academic year, it’s important to understand what they offer and how they can shape your child’s future. Two exciting pathways to consider are AAQs and reformed Technical Qualifications.
What are AAQs?
AAQs blend academic study with hands-on, practical learning, making them a fantastic choice for students who want the best of both worlds. Plus, these qualifications carry UCAS points, opening many possibilities for your child’s future, including higher education, apprenticeships, or employment.
Benefits of AAQs
AAQs, or Alternative Academic Qualifications, are designed to prepare your child for university, equipping them with the academic knowledge, critical thinking and study skills they’ll need to thrive in higher education.
They blend classroom learning with practical, hands-on experience. Your child will develop the skills employers value, while also building confidence in the academic study methods they’ll need at university.
Another plus side to AAQs subjects not typically available at A Level, such as Engineering, Applied Science and Health and Social Care, and can even be studied alongside A Levels to create a more flexible learning pathway for students.
What are Reformed Technical Qualifications?
Reformed Technical Qualifications are brand-new for 2025, designed to give your child a head starts in their career. These qualifications are designed around real employer needs, meaning your child will gain the skills, knowledge and behaviours that today’s industries are looking for.
Benefits of Reformed Technical Qualifications
Reformed Technical Qualifications are built around employer-led occupational standards, meaning they are directly aligned with the skills employers want. If your child chooses one of these qualifications, they’ll be gaining practical, career-focused experience to boost their employability in their chosen field.
Reformed Technical Qualifications focus on real-world skills. Your child will learn by doing perfect for students that thrive in practical, hands-on environments.
There’s a growing demand for skilled workers across a range of industries, such as engineering, digital, health, and construction. A reformed Technical Qualification can give your child a direct route into employment in these sectors, making them job-ready from day one.