About the Diploma
The Diploma is an exciting new qualification for 14- to 19-year-olds in England. It offers a blend of theoretical and applied learning.
A Diploma programme balances sector-related learning with life skills and project work, as well as covering functional skills in mathematics, English and ICT. Students follow a coherent programme of study, while having the flexibility to pursue their personal goals.
We are working with the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF), schools, awarding bodies and others to constantly develop and deliver the Diploma.
Whether you're a teacher, curriculum planner, assessor, or from an exams office, you'll find this section helpful. We've put together a range of guidance on planning and delivery.
We also recommend visiting Diploma Support, which offers a comprehensive one-stop shop for teaching and learning information and resources.
The Diploma and 14–19 reform
Diplomas play a key role in the government's objective to raise the participation age. In 2013 the minimum age at which young people can leave education or training will be raised to 17, and in 2015 it will become 18.
14–19 education reform places the Diploma alongside three other qualification routes:
- general qualifications such as GCSEs, A levels and the new extended project
- apprenticeships for 16- to 18-year-olds
- Foundation Learning, a structured, tailored approach to learning at entry level and level 1.
We have produced two films which demonstrate how a consortium in Islington brings the Diploma components together to deliver a coherent learning experience. The first film covers the Diploma in environmental and land-based studies, which offers an exciting opportunity to students in an inner-city area. The second shows the consortium's approach to delivering the Diploma in society, health and development.
View larger video
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Last modified: 05 May 2010
