Diploma Roadshow helps young people get on the right career path

Students from Springhill High School got advice and guidance on local Diploma Qualifications.

Being a young person trying to decide what career you want and what qualifications you will need to help you find that perfect job after full time education or training is never easy, so the Department of Children Schools and Families’ (DCSF) recent Diploma Roadshow has been in Rochdale to lend a helping hand.

Last week Richmond Hall saw 300 ambitious young people aged between 14-19 from Secondary Schools across Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale attend to access Information, Advice and Guidance on the Diploma Qualifications available to them.

Pupils were introduced to the new Diploma qualification that combines theoretical and practical learning and is designed to give young people a fully rounded education.

One year 11 student from Springhill High School said: “Today has been really helpful in distinguishing the differences between a diploma and A Levels. It has given me another option to consider before I leave school and head on to college.”

Jo Manfred, 14-19 Development Officer at Rochdale Council, said: “A Diploma is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge for entry to both higher education and employment. Through touch screen kiosks and one to one chats with our Diploma Facilitators young people were able to find out what opportunities exist in the borough to further their education and learning.”

The Creative Media Diploma emerged as the most popular amongst the visitors to the roadshow. Steve Broadbent from Connexions in Middleton also attended the event and said: “We have a responsibility to ensure our young people are able to access career advice so that they are equipped with the right knowledge to make informed decisions about their futures.”

Any young person who would like to find out whether a Diploma would suit them can call Rochdale Borough Council's 14-19 Education and Skills Team on 01706 925155 or email jo.manfred@rochdale.gov.uk