The first five Diplomas in Construction and the Built Environment, Creative and Media, Engineering, Information Technology and Society, Health and Development will be taught in schools and colleges from September 2008. Another five will be launched in September 2009. In total, there will be 17 subject areas to choose from by 2011.
They include Environmental and Land-based Studies; Business, Administration and Finance; Manufacturing and Product Design; Hospitality; Hair and Beauty Studies; Travel and Tourism; Public Services; Sport and Leisure; Retail; Science; Languages and Humanities.
Where will I study my Diploma?
As well as learning in the classroom you might spend time in an environment more like a college or workplace, such as a workshop. You will also get the chance to do work experience with an employer. Very few schools or colleges will be able to teach the full range of Diploma courses. So, they are now working together to make sure you get the best facilities and teachers in your area.
More subjects will be introduced every year. From 2011, all 17 Diplomas will be available in areas across the country.
How long does it take to do a Diploma?
Diplomas will generally take two years, studying full-time. If you are doing a Foundation or Higher Diploma aged 16 or over, you should be able to complete it in less time. Alternatively, you can study for a Diploma part-time if you have a job or other commitments.
I haven’t done a Foundation or Higher Diploma. Can I still do an Advanced Diploma?
Yes you can, you don’t need to have completed a Foundation Diploma or a Higher Diploma to do an Advanced Diploma.
What is the difference between Diplomas and Apprenticeships?
Apprenticeships are for those who already know which career they want to pursue. They provide training for specific jobs. Diplomas give young people an insight into particular subject areas, alongside a fully rounded education. So a student with an Engineering Diploma, for example, can choose from a wide range of areas across related industries or something in a completely different area. Employers and universities will know that they have the generic skills that they value most.
Can I move from Diplomas to other qualifications?
Yes. The Diploma is part of a range of learning options to help you move from school or college onto university, a job or further training.
It’s another option for you to consider. And it does not replace existing options like GCSEs, A levels or Apprenticeships. In fact, you can take GCSEs or A levels alongside a Diploma, and probably will if you are in Years 10 and 11. And you can even choose to take a GCSE or A level as part of your Diploma course, or one of your optional courses.
All Diploma students need to achieve a minimum standard in English, maths and ICT. These are the same as what you will be covering anyway. But it also means that you will gain experience in how to apply these subjects to practical situations to help you achieve them.
What can I do if I am worried about affording further study?
If you are worried about being short of cash for your studies after 16, there is help. The Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) can help you finance your final years of learning. For more information visit the EMA website:
Where can I get more Information?
To find out more about the Diploma, you can talk to your teachers, Careers Adviser or Connexions Personal Adviser.
Visit these websites for more useful information on options.
