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UK Universities back new Diploma qualification
On the eve of the publication of GCSE results, over 85% of universities have voiced support for The Diploma, a new qualification designed for 14 - 19 year olds. Universities and employers were involved in creating the qualification which combines theoretical study with practical learning and will be accepted by the vast majority of UK Universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. Students getting their GCSE results this week may be able to take the Advanced level Diploma as an alternative to A-levels.
The Diploma is an alternative to traditional qualifications. It offers children flexibility to study in schools, colleges and workplaces, and gives them the chance to experience work without having to make a commitment to a career. They can develop abilities relevant to working life, including English, Maths and computer skills, with an emphasis on creative and enjoyable learning. 20,000 students will start studying for Diplomas next month.
Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families, Ed Balls, said:
"I'm pleased so many universities have now come out in support of the Diploma, including some of our most famous institutions. They recognise that candidates will have not only the practical skills they need for the world of work but the knowledge and theoretical rigour to study at degree level and beyond."
Jim Knight Minister for Schools and Learners, said:
"This is great news for young people, especially those considering their options post-GCSE. They deserve to have a genuine choice about where their qualifications take them, be it university or straight towards employment. That's what our reforms to the education system for 14 to 19 year olds are all about."
For more information visit http://yp.direct.gov.uk/diplomas/
NOTES TO EDITORS:
* There are three levels of Diploma. Foundation is worth five GCSEs at grade D to G. Higher is equal to seven GCSEs grade A to C, and the Advanced Diploma has the same value as three and a half A-levels. 235 of 306 Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) have said they will consider applicants who have achieved an Advanced Diploma (worth 3.5 A levels) or an Extended Advanced Diploma (worth 4.5 A levels).
* The qualification presently covers 5 disciplines and will expand to encompass 17 over the next three years. These will include Engineering, IT, Science and Humanities, the latter of which is currently in development by Oxford academics and industry leaders and will be available from 2011.
* The Diploma is part of the 14- 19 reform programme that aims to encourage young people to stay in education for longer by offering a wider choice of learning styles leading to qualifications that both employers and seats of higher education are really looking for. The programme includes updated GCSEs and GCE 'A' levels, an increased number of Apprenticeships
Over 5,000 employers have been involved in developing the Diploma, including Rolls Royce, Vodafone and AstraZenica.
Secretary of State for Children, Schools and Families, Ed Balls, said:
"I'm pleased so many universities have now come out in support of the Diploma, including some of our most famous institutions. They recognise that candidates will have not only the practical skills they need for the world of work but the knowledge and theoretical rigour to study at degree level and beyond."
Jim Knight Minister for Schools and Learners, said:
"This is great news for young people, especially those considering their options post-GCSE. They deserve to have a genuine choice about where their qualifications take them, be it university or straight towards employment. That's what our reforms to the education system for 14 to 19 year olds are all about."
For more information visit http://yp.direct.gov.uk/diplomas/
NOTES TO EDITORS:
* There are three levels of Diploma. Foundation is worth five GCSEs at grade D to G. Higher is equal to seven GCSEs grade A to C, and the Advanced Diploma has the same value as three and a half A-levels. 235 of 306 Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) have said they will consider applicants who have achieved an Advanced Diploma (worth 3.5 A levels) or an Extended Advanced Diploma (worth 4.5 A levels).
* The qualification presently covers 5 disciplines and will expand to encompass 17 over the next three years. These will include Engineering, IT, Science and Humanities, the latter of which is currently in development by Oxford academics and industry leaders and will be available from 2011.
* The Diploma is part of the 14- 19 reform programme that aims to encourage young people to stay in education for longer by offering a wider choice of learning styles leading to qualifications that both employers and seats of higher education are really looking for. The programme includes updated GCSEs and GCE 'A' levels, an increased number of Apprenticeships
Over 5,000 employers have been involved in developing the Diploma, including Rolls Royce, Vodafone and AstraZenica.
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