Diploma Background

The Diploma is a new qualification for 14-19 year olds which sits alongside GCSEs/A-levels and Apprenticeships as a major learning choice for young people. It provides a recognised and respected route into further and higher education or direct employment.

The Diploma offers a mix of theoretical and practical learning in both the classroom and the workplace. They are designed to help students find out what area of work they are interested in.

Diploma facts

• A Diploma is a qualification for 14-19 year olds
• There are 3 levels to study a Diploma at: Foundation, Higher and Advanced
• From September 2009, Diplomas will be taught in 10 subjects
• Diplomas do not replace existing learning options
• They are available alongside GCSEs, A levels and Apprenticeships

What are Diplomas worth?

• A Foundation Diploma is the same as 5 GCSEs at grades D - G
• The Higher Diploma is the same as 7 GCSEs at grades A* - C
• The Advanced Diploma is the same as 3.5 A levels

A Progression Diploma is also available, equivalent to 2.5 A levels. An Extended Diploma will be available in 2011, containing extra Maths, English and Additional and Specialist Learning.

Diploma subjects

From September 2009, Diplomas will be available in the following subjects:

• Business, Administration and Finance
• Construction and the Built Environment
• Creative and Media
• Engineering
• Environmental and Land-based Studies
• Hair and Beauty Studies
• Hospitality
• Information Technology
• Manufacturing and Product Design
• Society, Health and Development

From September 2010, Diplomas will be taught in:

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

Three more Diploma subjects, originally intended to start in September 2011, were recently abolished by the coalition government, and will no longer run. They are:

• Humanities
• Language
• Science