New diploma for local students

Students in Rochdale have a new diploma option to choose - the Diploma, a new qualification, combines practical learning with classroom study and is available for students aged 14 at school and for 16 year olds in sixth forms or colleges. Young people in Rochdale will have the opportunity to study the Diploma for the first time from September 2009, when five Diplomas will be available in; Construction and the Built Environment; Creative and Media; Engineering; Information Technology; and Hair and Beauty.

The Diploma is an alternative to traditional qualifications such as GCSEs and A levels. It allows students to learn in a different way, applying the knowledge acquired in the classroom to the world of work. It's been developed with universities and employers and provides a route to higher education and employment.

There are three levels of Diploma – Foundation, Higher and Advanced – that young people can study at different stages in their education. A Foundation Diploma is worth five GCSEs, a Higher Diploma is worth seven GCSEs and an Advanced Diploma is worth three-and-a-half A levels and the right Advanced Diploma can get young people into any university. Young people in Rochdale are encouraged to consider the Diploma when choosing their options either alongside their GCSE choices at KS4, or when they are 16.

Connexions Advisor, Maggie Cowan, said: “When students at 14 and 16 are deciding on their options, it is very important that they seek advice and guidance to assist their choices. The range of options available for young people in Rochdale means that they can study a subject they are interested in, in a way that suits their needs and strengths. The Diploma, for example, gives young people a combination of learning techniques which combines traditional and applied practical learning.”

The Diploma is part of a national programme to offer young people a choice between four suites of qualifications post 16, to encourage them to learn for longer and gain the skills they need to succeed in work and life.

As well as the introduction of the Diploma, GCSEs and A levels have been strengthened and the number of Apprenticeships is growing in the expectation that 1 in 5 young people will choose apprenticeships by 2020. This variety of options offers a wide choice that will ensure there is something for everyone so all young people can make the most of their strengths and talents.