Freya Thomas Monk, Managing Director of Vocational Qualifications and Training at Pearson, said:

"We welcome the ambition the government has shown with this decision today, which ensures that many of these highly valued qualifications can remain on offer for all in England. This will give reassurance and clarity to colleges, schools, students and parents as they make plans for upcoming academic years.  It is particularly welcome news that the decision around the number of AAQs and A levels a student can take as a combination is now in their hands - not restricted to a rigid choice of one AAQ with two A levels.

"For employers, this is an important step to protect talent pipelines into vital sectors, such as engineering and the NHS, at a time when the country is facing pressing skill shortages.

"There is a lot of detail for the sector to digest and act upon following this announcement - we remain committed to supporting colleges and schools offering our BTEC Level 3 Nationals, as well as T Levels, as they navigate the changes ahead".