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.^[1][2][3] It follows Key Stage 4, and technically falls outside the national curriculum.^[4] During Key Stage 5, pupils study for A-levels or an equivalent qualification.^[5] Other advanced level qualifications pursued at Key Stage 5 may include AS level, International Baccalaureate diploma, and vocational and technical qualifications (VTQ) such as BTEC, BTEC extended diploma, or T Level.^[6] In November 2025, the UK government published plans to introduce a new V Leval qualification to sit alongside A Levels and T Levels.^[7][8]

See also

• Key Stage
• Key Stage 1
• Key Stage 2
• Key Stage 3
• Key Stage 4
• GCE Advanced Level