Public Confidence Survey

We have published the latest results from our public confidence survey.

The survey explores the public’s views on qualifications taken by learners aged 14 to 19 in Wales. It also captures public perceptions of whether qualifications and the qualifications system offer equal opportunities to all learners. 

In the survey, the respondents were asked to indicate their agreement with a series of statements about qualifications.

For this wave, 1,000 adults were interviewed online between 22 September and 12 October 2025. 

Key findings

Overall confidence remains positive and stable
Public confidence in Welsh qualifications in 2025 is broadly positive, with steady perceptions across most non-degree qualifications and continued trust in the system to support learners’ futures.

Strong confidence in general AS and A level qualifications
Trust in non-degree general qualifications remains high, especially regarding their value in preparing students for further study and their status as well-regarded qualifications.

Positive attitudes towards vocational qualifications
79% agree that vocational qualifications taken in school are valuable for young people’s futures.
75% agree that achieving a vocational qualification at age 18 is at least as valuable as achieving A levels.
These results highlight the important role vocational qualifications play for learners in Wales.

Initial views of new National Qualifications are highly positive
Large majorities view both the new Foundation qualifications and the new skills-related units (introduced from 2027) as useful, with very low levels of disagreement.

Equal opportunities
Agreement that Welsh qualifications and the qualifications system offer equal opportunities is high at 68% in 2025, with 8% of the public disagreeing.