Key Stage 5
Key Stage 5 refers to the education of students ages 16 to 19 in sixth forms and further education colleges in England and Northern Ireland. It follows Key [Stage 4], and technically falls outside the national curriculum. During Key Stage 5, pupils study for A-levels or an equivalent qualification. Other advanced level qualifications pursued at Key Stage 5 may include AS level, International Baccalaureate diploma, and vocational and technical qualifications such as BTEC, BTEC extended diploma, or T Level. In November 2025, the UK government published plans to introduce a new V Leval qualification to sit alongside A Levels and T Levels.