FAQs

1. Is the Diploma here to stay?

   Yes, the government has stated its intention for all young people aged 14-19 to have a national entitlement to a Diploma by 2013.

2. How have universities reacted to the Diploma?

   UCAS, the universities admission service ruled that it was equivalent to three and a half A levels. This decision means that the Advanced Diploma will be a recognised route into Higher Education. Many universities will have included formal statements about the acceptability of Diplomas on the UCAS website.

3. How will the introduction of the Diploma help ensure that the young people from disadvantaged backgrounds reach their potential?

   The 14-19 reforms are about ensuring that education and training provision prepares all young people (from all backgrounds) for life and work. By extending the range of learning opportunities available to young people, the reforms offer the opportunity to choose a mix of learning styles and content that is right for them.

4. Are there plans to make the Diploma in Sport and Active Leisure available for adult learners (those over 19)?

   Diplomas are qualifications designed with 14-19 year olds in mind. They provide a substantial and broad learning programme which gives young people the knowledge and skills they need for employment, further study and their future lives. Diplomas ensure young people have mastered the basics, have the personal learning and thinking skills essential to employability and further study, and have developed skills and knowledge and the ability to apply them in new and different contexts. Diplomas are not designed to be occupationally specific or prepare learners for particular job roles.
    
   Adult learners would not be barred from taking Diploma qualifications but they should ensure they have taken advice on whether it would be the right programme for them and they should also seek advice from the LSC about the availability of funding post 19 for such a large programme of learning.
    

The Diploma menu