Diplomas

There's a new qualification being introduced to the English curriculum from September. So what's the deal with diplomas? Find out here.

What is a diploma?

It's a new qualification for 14 to 19 year-olds in England. It's another option to consider alongside GCSEs, A-levels and apprenticeships. It doesn't replace these qualifications, instead it's anticipated that students will take a combination of qualifications that suits them best. You'll also be able to take a GCSE or A-level as part of your diploma course, if that's what you want. They will generally take two years to complete, but it could be shorter or longer depending on your situation.

What subjects are available?

The first five diploma subjects launch in September 2008. You'll be able to study Diplomas in Construction and the Built Environment, Creative and Media, Engineering, Information Technology and Society, and Health and Development.

Another five will be introduced in September 2009. These are: Environmental and Land-based Studies; Business, Administration and Finance; Manufacturing and Product Design; Hospitality and Catering; and Hair and Beauty. Finally, in September 2010 another four will be added. These are: Travel and Tourism; Public Services; Sport and Leisure; and Retail.

I haven't heard about this at school or college

Your school or college might not be signed up yet. From September 2008 there will be 1,300 selected schools and colleges taking part. The aim is to roll this out to all schools and colleges by 2013 so that everyone can take diplomas.

Ask your school or college when diplomas will be available to study, or check the online 14-19 area prospectus to see where you can study diplomas in your area.

How will diplomas be taught?

You can study diplomas at three levels:

The Foundation Diploma starts in Year 10 or 12 and takes around the same time as four or five GCSEs;
The Higher Diploma also starts in Year 10 or 12, and takes broadly the same amount of time as five or six GCSEs;
The Advanced Diploma takes about the same time as three A-levels.

There'll be some classroom learning, but because the diplomas aim to give you a head start in business, you'll also spend time in different environments, such as workshops. This should give you a better understanding of the type of workplace you might end up working in. There's also the opportunity to do work experience as part of your diploma.

Will universities recognise diplomas?

Yes, broadly speaking they'll equate an Advanced Diploma to three A-levels. Find out what two universities think of diplomas.

It sounds like an apprenticeship...

An apprenticeship is designed to train you for a specific career. Diplomas will give you a good taster into certain industries, but you'll have time to study other subjects while you decide on your preferred career path.