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What is a Diploma?

The Diploma is a new qualification for 14 to 19 year-olds, offering them a more practical, hands-on way of gaining the essential skills employers and universities look for. It’s aimed at increasing the choices available to young people and encouraging them to stay in education for longer.

As of September 2008, Diplomas in five subject areas are available in selected schools and colleges around the country - with more subject areas available in the coming years.

What’s different about a Diploma?

Designed in partnership with employers and universities, the Diploma can lead on to further study - or to work.

The Diploma involves practical, hands-on experience as well as classroom learning. It’s a combination aimed at encouraging students to develop work-relevant skills - along with their abilities in English, maths and ICT - in a creative and enjoyable way.

Students will be based in their own school or college, but may get the opportunity to learn in a different setting - another school, a local college, or in the workplace. They’ll get an insight into what work is really like, helping them make decisions about the future while keeping their career options open.

The Diploma is flexible, so students can combine it with GCSEs and A levels. Young people studying for Diplomas will do so along with any compulsory subjects - for example, English, maths, science and physical education in Years 10 and 11.

What do Diplomas cover?

Diplomas in five subject areas will be available at selected schools and colleges as of September 2008: 

• Construction and the Built Environment
• Creative and Media
• Engineering
• Information Technology
• Society, Health and Development

More subject areas will be added over the coming years, with the full range of 17 available to all students by 2013.

Compulsory elements

Every Diploma student must complete a number of compulsory and optional elements.

For example, the compulsory parts of the Diploma in Engineering will cover:

• the engineering world
• engineering technology
• the engineering future

In addition, students will continue to study English, maths and ICT - and develop other skills such as teamwork, critical thinking and self management.

Optional elements

Alongside the compulsory elements, Diploma students can choose from a range of options. They can pursue an area of their Diploma studies in more depth, or follow their interest in an unrelated subject.

For example, a student taking the Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment might be able to choose a specialist course in surveying, community management or regeneration - or an unrelated option like a language or science.

Project and work experience

Diploma students complete a project to investigate a subject that interests them, showing that they understand what they have learned and can apply it in a practical way. They also spend at least ten days working with an employer.

Where do Diplomas fit with other qualifications?

Students who choose to study for a Diploma can do it instead of GCSEs or A levels (although they can include some GCSEs and A levels within their Diploma programme).

There are three levels of Diploma, each taking two years to complete:

• Foundation Diploma - a level 1 qualification, equivalent to five GCSEs at grades D to G
• Higher Diploma - a level 2 qualification, equivalent to seven GCSEs at grades A* to C
• Advanced Diploma - a level 3 qualification for those over 16, equivalent to three and a half A levels

Another option for those over 16 is the Progression Diploma (also a level 3 qualification). This will suit students who don’t want to do a whole Diploma.

Foundation and Higher Diploma students can continue with education or take their new skills into a job that offers further training. Those who choose to stay in education can move on to the next level of Diploma, or take a different type of qualification - such as GCSEs, A levels or an Apprenticeship.

Advanced Diplomas can lead either to university or into a career.

• Qualifications: what the different levels mean

How can you find out more about the Diploma?

Follow the link below to find out more about the Diploma. You can also get more information from schools and colleges taking part.

• Find out more about Diplomas Opens new window

Where can young people get information on their options at 14-19?

Information on the options available to young people is available through the links below.

• Which way now? Years 10-11
• It’s your choice: options after 16