City & Guilds recognised by Ofqual to deliver new reformed qualifications

Recognition marks a major milestone in supporting skills development, employability and progression opportunities for learners across the UK

11 August 2026

City & Guilds has been formally recognised by Ofqual to deliver the new reformed V Levels, Occupational Certificates and Foundation Certificates as part of Tranche 1 of the upcoming qualification reforms.

The recognition makes City & Guilds one of the first awarding organisations to be approved to deliver the new qualifications and represents a significant milestone in helping learners gain the skills, confidence and occupational competence needed to succeed in work and further learning.

The achievement follows a rigorous assessment process, with City & Guilds, now backed by PeopleCert, demonstrating the strength of its quality assurance arrangements, operational infrastructure, technical expertise and extensive experience in delivering high-quality vocational and technical qualifications, alongside new innovation, technology and reach.

The recognition comes at a time when there is a growing national focus on ensuring people have access to the skills needed to participate and thrive in a changing economy. High-quality technical and vocational qualifications have a critical role to play in helping learners of all backgrounds progress into employment, further education and training, while supporting employers to address skills needs across key sectors.

Andy Moss, Interim CEO at City & Guilds, said:

"We are delighted to have been recognised by Ofqual to deliver V Levels, Occupational Certificates and Foundation Certificates as part of the first tranche of qualification reform.

"To be among the first awarding organisations through this process is a real achievement. It reflects the strength of our submission, the quality of our systems and processes, and the expertise that exists across City & Guilds. Most importantly, it demonstrates City & Guilds’ unwavering focus on delivering high-quality technical education routes that are valued and respected by students, parents and employers.

"These new qualifications have the potential to play a transformative role in technical education, helping learners develop not only occupational competence and technical knowledge, but also the employability skills, confidence and adaptability that employers increasingly value.

"This recognition is an important milestone, but it is only the beginning. We look forward to working closely with employers, providers and partners to bring these high-quality qualifications to learners and ensure everyone has the opportunity to realise their potential, regardless of their starting point."

City & Guilds will now continue its work towards the next stages of qualification reform, building on its long-standing reputation for quality and its commitment to helping learners develop the technical, professional and employability skills they need to progress into employment, further learning and successful careers.

As qualification reform progresses, the organisation remains committed to creating inclusive pathways that support learners at every stage of their journey, helping more people access the skills, opportunities and support needed to participate fully in education, training and work.