Skills Academy

14-19 Diploma

The 14-19 Diploma is developed with employers, schools and colleges to help young people get the kind of experience which is so valued by employers, while at the same time continuing with their full-time education.

What is a 14-19 Diploma?

Diplomas are an important part of the Government’s 14-19 curriculum reforms, made up of 3 levels of qualification:

1.    Foundation Diploma – equivalent to 5 GCSEs at Grade D-G
2.    Higher Diploma – equivalent to 7 GCSEs, Grade A-C
3.    Advanced Diploma – which is equivalent to 3.5 A Level Passes; and
       Progression Diploma – equivalent to 2.5 A Level Passes.

The emphasis is to provide study in such a way that young people can apply their learning to the working environment. They can also acquire the skills, knowledge and understanding they need to progress further with higher education and/or into employment.

Who can do them?

The aim is by 2013, all young people aged between 14-19 will be entitled to study one of the 17 Diploma lines of learning. The first wave of teaching started in September 2008 and there are currently five Diplomas running in 2009.
See what’s available in your region by clicking on the interactive map

How will it benefit me?

Students:

You will:

•  develop through first-hand experience an insight into the world of work
• build skills such as problem-solving, creative thinking, partnership working and communication
• progress to a wide range of higher and occupational learning
• open doors for a career in social work, community justice, health professions and the children's        workforce.
   

Employers:

You will:

• attract motivated, young people into your sector
• offer an insight into rewarding and challenging career options 
• raise the skills levels of potential new recruits in the long term
• attract young people who are better prepared for the transition to work.

Education Providers

You will:

• be able to offer a wider range of qualifications to attract the greatest breadth of learners
• build closer alliances with local schools, colleges and employers with greater opportunities for sharing understanding, good practice and resources
• deliver learning in a new and exciting way which will attract motivated students

How do I find out about Diplomas near me?

For further information about what’s available in your region, please use the interactive map