Diplomas

The Diploma is a new qualification that you can achieve at school or college. There are currently 10 subjects to choose from and by 2011 there will be 17 subjects available. The subject areas available before 2011 are:

• Business Administration
• Finance Construction
• Built Environment
• Creative and Media Environment
• Land-Based Studies
• Hair and Beauty Studies
• Hospitality
• Information Technology
• Public Services
• Social Health
• Development Sports
• Active Leisure

Each Diploma contains the same elements. These are:

Principal learning, developing the knowledge, understanding and skills relevant to the chosen Diploma subject.

Generic learning, including Functional Skills

Functional skills are the practical English, maths and ICT skills that everybody needs to deal with everyday life, for example writing a letter of application, or working out the value of a car. The Diploma will contain all three functional skills qualifications. Students will need to achieve a pass in functional skills at foundation level for a Foundation Level Diploma and at higher for a Higher Diploma or advanced for an Advanced Diploma.

There is also a minimum 10 days’ work experience within generic learning.

Additional/Specialist Learning (ASL), which offers young people the opportunity to study a particular topic in more depth or broaden their studies through complementary learning. ASL consists of a wide range of existing and some new qualifications, including GCSEs, A levels and BTECs.

The project for the Advanced Diploma has the same specification as the Extended Project, which is available to A level students.

There will also be a Progression Diploma (equivalent in size to 2.5 A levels). This will include the generic and principal learning sections of the full Advanced Diploma. It is intended to provide recognition for the achievements of those who do not wish to complete the full Advanced Diploma.

Diploma Design

Each Diploma shares the same set of personal, learning and thinking skills. These are embedded in, and assessed through, the principal learning.

Personal, learning and thinking skills cover: 

• creative thinking
• reflective learning
• independent inquiry
• team working
• effective participation
• self-management

Initially, the Diploma will be taught in selected partnerships of schools and colleges. These will enable students to access the best teaching and facilities in their area.

To find out more about diplomas please click here www.direct.gov.uk/diplomas