New subjects include construction design, bricklaying and plumbing at V Level which replace legacy qualifications like BTECs.

Tens of thousands of extra work placements will also be created for learners who start their construction courses this September.

The new V (vocational) Levels will sit alongside A levels and T levels. Equivalent to one A Level, they will allow students to mix and match academic and vocational subjects.

Skills Minister Jacqui Smith said:  “We’re removing the snobbery from hands-on learning and putting it on par with academic to break down barriers for young people to get rewarding jobs.

“Our landmark vocational  qualifications and placements  will  create  a strong pipeline of workers  by  equipping  young people with the real-world skills that employers need and that will fuel the jobs of the future.”

East Lancashire Learning Group Principal and CEO Lisa O’Loughlin said: “These Post 16 qualification reforms are one of the greatest steps forward our sector has seen in decades, and I am incredibly proud that we are helping to lead the way as a Pioneer college.

“I believe these reforms will be transformational. They will create clearer pathways, stronger links with employers and a far more responsive education system that reflects the needs of our economy and communities. ”