Commenting following the government's announcement on the future of post-16 qualifications, Sarah Hannafin, head of policy at school leaders' union NAHT, said: "The decisions announced today are positive news for students and provide some much-needed clarity for schools and colleges.

"The ambition of the previous government for A levels and T levels to be the only two qualification pathways post-16 would have failed to meet the needs and ambitions of many students.  

"Applied general qualifications, including BTECs, are rigorous qualifications that allow 16-19-year-old students to develop transferable knowledge and skills and allow entry to a range of higher education courses as well as to the world of work.

"These qualifications have a vital role to play in retention, achievement and progression for students and it is right that this is maintained."