That’s where NOCN Group’s new Level 2 Technical Occupational Entry Qualifications come in. Designed with industry in mind, they offer clear, practical pathways for learners while giving centres the resources and guidance to deliver with confidence.

Earlier this month, we hosted a practical walkthrough of the recent changes to these Level 2 qualifications from Skills England, with a focus on key construction trades. Our webinar emphasised that the core structure of the qualifications remains unchanged, whilst highlighting important updates to four qualifications: Carpentry and Joinery, Painting and Decorating, Bricklaying, and Plastering. Led by NOCN Group product specialists Jonathan Alton and Lisa Hill, we broke down the key updates using clear visuals and practical examples, helping attendees understand what’s changed, and what it all means for delivering these qualifications in real-world settings.

Catch up with the webinar below

Why these qualifications matter

Post-16 reforms are changing the way technical education is delivered. Learners need hands-on skills that meet industry standards. Educators need clear frameworks, reliable resources, and straightforward assessments.

NOCN Group’s new Level 2 qualifications meet both needs. They combine practical trade skills with essential theory, ensuring learners leave with the knowledge, experience, and confidence to progress in their careers.

Structure, assessment and delivery

For the 2025–26 academic year, the qualifications include:

• Practical units developing core trade skills.
• Theory units on construction principles, sustainability, health and safety, and communication.

To support delivery, every unit comes with learner workbooks, teaching presentations, and quizzes. These additional, optional resources have been designed to save tutors time, ensure consistency, and provide a flexible foundation for delivery.

Assessments are designed to be practical, straightforward, and supportive of learner progress. The majority are completed under controlled conditions and marked internally by centres.

All supporting resources are hosted on NOCN’s online hub, making it easy for tutors to access and adapt them. Presentations can be customised to reflect local industry needs, ensuring learning always feels relevant.

Progression and Level 3 – what’s next?

Level 2 is just the beginning.

Here is the current picture for Level 3 qualifications:

• New Level 3 qualifications in site carpentry, craft carpentry, and architectural joinery are funded for adults only.
• For 16–19-year-olds, the existing Level 3 Diploma remains in place until at least January 2026.
• Craft Bricklaying Level 3 has been approved and will be fully funded from August 2026.

NOCN Group continues to work with Skills England and government to secure funding across more trades, giving providers confidence that more progression routes are on the way.

Supporting skills and industry

These qualifications are designed to meet the needs of both learners and employers. They provide practical skills for employment, support workforce development, and create clear progression opportunities.

By combining accessible resources, structured assessments, and flexible delivery options, NOCN Group helps centres deliver high-quality education that aligns with industry standards.

The new Level 2 Technical Occupational Entry Qualifications demonstrate NOCN Group’s commitment to practical skills solutions. Centres, educators, and employers now have the guidance and resources they need to deliver these qualifications effectively, preparing learners for the next stage of their careers.

To explore how these qualifications can support your learners, visit the NOCN Group website or contact our team to access resources and guidance for your centre.