Diploma - area under review

The Diplomas are exciting qualifications that will challenge and stretch learners, whether they are preparing for university or employment. They will offer a mix of theoretical and applied learning, including functional English, maths and ICT, and the opportunity to develop a specialism or take on complementary study.

They provide flexibility and choice for all learners, through a unique mix of traditional and work-relevant learning. They have been developed in collaboration with employers to ensure their relevance, and are valued by employers and higher education institutions, as their combination of essential skills, relevant experience and applied learning provides an excellent grounding for careers.

The Diplomas will give learners first-hand experience and insight into the world of work by providing opportunities for them to take part in a practical 'real world' environment. From 2013, learners will be able to take one of 14 Diplomas at Foundation, Higher and Advanced Levels covering all the sectors of the economy. They will sit alongside, and sometimes incorporate, GCEs and GCSEs.