How did the post-16 qualifications framework develop?

The post-16 qualifications framework was introduced to the first year (Year 12) of sixth forms in England and Northern Ireland in September 2000, following 20 years of discussion, vision and attempts to revolutionize post-compulsory education for 16-to 19-year-olds. After two major consultations, the Dearing Report (1996) and Qualifying for Success (DfEE, 1997), under successive Conservative and Labour governments, we now have a framework that incorporates the academic and vocational and has at its core the desire to improve retention and widen participation at 16.