Diplomas

Diplomas are innovative new qualifications for 14 to 19 year olds. They have been created to provide a real alternative to more traditional education and qualifications, and their introduction is likely to be the most important change to the country’s education system since the introduction of GCSEs.

Diplomas have been developed by employers, schools, colleges and universities to help young people realise their potential and gain knowledge and skills in a ‘real world’ environment.

A Diploma is an all-round package which gives students the right knowledge, experience, insight and attitude to prepare them for the next stage in life – whether that’s university, college or work.

Who are they for?

Diplomas are equally suitable for the most able pupils preparing for demanding university courses; for young people who find the existing education system doesn’t suit them and for those who want to go straight into work after leaving school. Students will be able to select which level Diploma suits them best:

• Level 1: equivalent in size to 4-5 GCSEs at grades D to G
• Level 2: equivalent in size to 5-6 GCSEs at grades A* to C
• Level 3: equivalent in size to three A levels.

What subjects are taught in a Diploma?

Diplomas are available in:

• Construction and the Built Environment
• Creative and Media
• Engineering
• Society
• Health and Care
• IT
• Land-based and environmental studies Manufacturing
• Hair and Beauty
• Business Administration and Finance
• Hospitality

From September 2010, there are four more Diplomas planned in:

• Public Services
• Sport and Active Leisure
• Retail
• Travel and Tourism

All Diplomas will ensure students get an excellent grounding in English, Maths, IT and personal learning and thinking skills. A project will help develop students’ ability for independent work, and every student will have at least 10 days’ work experience.

Will all Diplomas be available at all schools and colleges?

No – but from 2013, arrangements will be in place to ensure that young people can take any Diploma they want – even if it’s not provided at their school. Not all schools and colleges were able to offer the Diplomas from 2008, and it is unlikely that any one school or college will be able to offer all 14 subject areas.