14–19 Diploma

The Diploma is a composite qualification in England launched in September 2008. Its development was announced in the 14–19 Education and Skills White Paper of March 2005. It is available to learners between the ages of 14 and 19, crossing the divide between general education and vocational education.

Diploma lines of learning, levels, and qualification structure

Diplomas are available in a range of 14 industry/employment sectors. These are known as lines of learning (rather than subjects). These include Engineering, Creative and Media and Travel and Tourism. Diplomas are not intended as preparation for direct entry into a profession, but as a general education as well as an introduction to an industry sector from which a student might progress, either through further study in full time education, or training.

All 14 lines of learning are available at levels 1, 2 and 3 of the National Qualifications Framework. At level 1, the Diploma is known as a Foundation Diploma and is roughly equivalent in terms of challenge and volume of study to 5 GCSE qualifications at grades D - G. At level 2, the Diploma is known as a Higher Diploma which is comparable in terms of challenge and volume of study to 7 A* - C grades at GCSE. At level 3, two sizes of Diploma are available. The Advanced Diploma is comparable in challenge and volume of study to 3.5 A-levels, whereas the Progression Diploma, involved a smaller volume of study, approximated to 2.5 A-levels.

Most Diplomas have three main components: principal learning, generic learning and additional and specialist learning. Principal learning is a single qualification, based on the chosen line of learning. This qualification makes up the greatest proportion of the Diploma. Generic learning includes a number of sub-components: functional skills qualifications in English, Mathematics and ICT; a project qualification; a minimum of 10 days work experience and achievement of six personal, learning and thinking skills. The additional and specialist learning component permits the student to choose to include one or more qualifications in their Diploma. These qualifications may, but do not have to, relate to the line of learning. The Progression Diploma does not include the additional and specialist learning component.

UCAS

Although UCAS tariff points have been agreed for the advanced diplomas, many universities do not accept the qualification for entry to further study. The UCAS website details whether universities will or will not accept the qualification.

References

• Department for Children, Schools and Families
• [1]
• Qualifications and Curriculum Authority
• http://www.diploma-support.org
• http://www.ucas.com/students/beforeyouapply/diplomas/14-19diplomas/statements - Link broken (08/02/10)

External links

• http://diploma-support.org
• 14-19 Reform