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Qualification design and development

Information about each of the different phases of roll out of the Diploma and other issues relating to the design of the qualification.

Last updated: 14 December 2009

Diplomas are developed by Diploma development partnerships (DDPs), of which there is one for each line of learning. Led by Sector Skills Councils, these bodies bring together a wide range of stakeholders – from employers, schools, colleges and universities to subject associations, professional bodies and awarding bodies.

Lines of learning

Diplomas are available in 17 subjects, known as 'lines of learning'. These are:

  • Construction and the built environment 
  • Creative and media 
  • Engineering 
  • Information and technology 
  • Society, health and development 
  • Business, administration and finance 
  • Environmental and land-based studies 
  • Hair and beauty studies 
  • Hospitality 
  • Manufacturing and product design 
  • Public services 
  • Retail business 
  • Sport and active leisure 
  • Travel and tourism 
  • Humanities and social sciences
  • Languages and international communications
  • Science

Each DDP decides on the new content for principal learning qualifications and works with awarding bodies to agree suitable qualifications that students can take under additional and specialist learning.

How are Diplomas developed?

To develop principal learning, DDPs begin by drafting a line of learning statement. This is a detailed document that explains the rationale, vision and content at levels 1, 2 and 3. It also outlines the processes and research the DDP has carried out to underpin the design and content of the new qualifications.

QCDA uses this document to develop the line of learning criteria. This is a regulatory document that must be approved by Ofqual. It sets out the knowledge, skills and understanding that are relevant to a line of learning at levels 1, 2 and 3. When developing principal learning qualifications awarding bodies must meet the requirements laid out in the line of learning criteria, as well as the criteria for accreditation of Diploma qualifications at levels 1, 2 and 3.

Once the line of learning criteria has been adopted by Ofqual and published, awarding bodies are invited to develop the new principal learning qualifications and work with the DDP to make sure the vision for the lines of learning is reflected in the qualification specifications.

The DDPs also produce awarding body toolkits. These give more information about assessment and delivery to help awarding bodies meet the line of learning criteria.
QCDA also works with awarding bodies during the qualification development process. We offer advice, guidance and support to help ensure the resulting qualifications can meet the regulatory requirements laid down by Ofqual.

You can find out more about the qualifications accredited for the Diploma from the National Database for Accredited Qualifications.

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