DfE Update further education: 24 September 2025
Published 24 September 2025
Applies to England
© Crown copyright 2025
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/dfe-update-24-september-2025/dfe-update-further-education-24-september-2025
1. Information: R12 in-year qualification achievement rates 2024 to 2025
Your R12 in-year 2024 to 2025 qualification achievement rates (QARs) can now be accessed through view your education data (VYED).
ILR R14 closes at 6pm on Thursday 23 October 2025, please examine your data carefully and resolve potential data issues, adjustments cannot be requested after this date.
Due to the move to a new Departmental data infrastructure, and the rebuild of QARs in it, there have been some delays in getting some content released to you.
Historical apprenticeships and recast education and training data is now available in your 2024 to 2025 data extracts. It’s not been possible to migrate the Campus identifier and map code fields, as well as Apprenticeships subcontractor QARs, into the new QAR VYED reports but these will be available in your R14 reports.
We are aware there was some confusion around overdue planned breaks following publication of this year’s guidance. No changes have been made to the way overdue planned breaks are treated, the guidance was reviewed and now more clearly explains how they have always been treated in QARs.
If you have any queries in relation to QARs, contact us using the customer help portal (select “data and MI” query). Further peer support can also be found on the help centre.
2. Information: Updated Gatsby Benchmarks for good career guidance
From September 2025, all institutions should use the updated Gatsby Benchmarks to shape their careers programmes.
The benchmarks are now included in statutory guidance, and aim to empower young people to explore their potential and gain workplace skills.
For the first time the guidance extends to include independent training providers (ITPs) with learners up to age 18 (or up to age 25 with an education, health and care plan), highlighting their vital role in further education.
The Careers and Enterprise Company has created a guide for ITPs to support implementation.
You can visit Gatsby Benchmarks Champions to hear from those leading the way in implementing the benchmarks.
Careers guidance can improve outcomes, including attendance, attainment and inclusion.
The updated guidance encourages a whole-institution approach, supported by those in governance and leadership roles and recognises the role of subject staff in linking course learning with careers.