New Diploma subjects for Rochdale students

This week, young people in Rochdale will begin studying new Diploma subjects for the first time.

Launched in 2008, the Diploma is a qualification for 14 to 19 year olds that combines academic and practical learning, which aims to give students the knowledge and skills for success in higher education and employment.

Last year young people in Rochdale could choose to take the Diploma in two subjects; Information Technology and Society, Health and Development. From this September students are offered a further four subjects: Construction and the Built Environment, Creative and Media, Engineering and Hair and Beauty Studies.

Sir Alan Jones, the UK's lead Diploma Employer Champion, said: “Diploma students are learning in a completely new way, enabling them to make the link between classroom learning and the real world of work. These young people will have a career headstart based on a more rounded education which includes the skills that employers value such as teamwork, communication and enterprise. Rochdale employers now have the opportunity to support the Diploma. Diploma students are being equipped with the knowledge and approach to business that means they will keep on learning and contributing in a fast-changing world.

“The newly introduced Diploma subjects mean more young people in Rochdale will be able to study a subject that is interesting and relevant to them, and which will give them the skills and confidence they need to succeed at work and in life.”

Paul Marshall, Executive Director of the 1994 Group, which represents 19 leading universities, said: “The Diploma is a really important addition to the education options for young people at 14 and 16 years old. The Advanced Diploma combines theory and practice, making it a more exciting way to learn, as well as valuable preparation for higher education.

“The 1994 Group of universities welcomes applications from Advanced Diploma students for a number of our courses, and I am confident that member institutions will have a growing number of applicants with this qualification in future.”

Iain Wright, Minister for 14-19 Reform said: “We know that young people have different interests and talents, and they enjoy learning in different ways. Thanks to the introduction of these new Diploma subjects, pupils in Rochdale now have more choice than ever before when it comes to their education. Diplomas allow young people to apply their knowledge in practical, work-based and real world situations, which many students find engaging and relevant to their future.

“Whether pupils in Rochdale are thinking about university or employment once they’ve finished their course, the Diploma offers them a fantastic opportunity to develop the crucial skills and confidence that lead to success.”

The Diploma offers an alternative to traditional qualifications such as GCSEs and A levels. As well as learning about a specific sector, all Diploma students will continue to develop their functional skills in English. It has been developed with universities and employers to provide an additional route to higher education and employment.