What is a Diploma?

a new qualification for 14 to 19-year-olds

three levels – Foundation, Higher and Advanced

widens choice

based around an employment sector, combining academic study
with practical experience

develops relevant skills, knowledge and understanding in a creative
and enjoyable way
Diploma Study

Principal Learning – Diploma subject

Functional Skills - English, Maths, and ICT

PLTS - Personal, Learning and Thinking Skills

10 days work experience

Optional subjects included – Specialist or Additional Learning

Project
Diploma Qualifications

Foundation level = 5 GCSEs grade D-G

Higher level = 7 GCSEs grade A*-C

Advanced level = 3.5 A Levels
What could a Diploma lead to?
Apprenticeship
 FE
 HE
 Employment

What is the difference between
Diplomas, BTECs and
Apprenticeships?
Diplomas
BTEC
Apprenticeships
insight into particular
employment sector
know your career
know your career
broad course - fully rounded
education
specific skills training
specific skills training
range of Employers involved
some employers involved
Work with one employer
The benefits of a Diploma

academic learning with ‘hands-on’ experience.

chance to do part of their learning in other schools, colleges or the
workplace.

help make decisions about their future career.

students acquire wide range of skills that any employer would recognise.

Diploma students develop the knowledge, understanding and skills they
need to have more choice of courses at college or university.
Phase
Diploma Area
Availability
Gateway 1
Engineering
Creative and Media
Construction and the Built
Environment
September
2008
Gateway 2
ICT
Society, Health and Development
Environmental & Land-based
Studies
Manufacturing & Product Design
Hair and Beauty Studies
Business, Administration & Finance
Hospitality
September
2009
Gateway 3
Public Services
Sport and Leisure
Retail Business
Travel and Tourism
September
2010
Gateway 4
Science
Humanities
MFL
September
2011
Sunderland Cluster Groups

Cluster 1
Southmoor, Farringdon, Thornhill, Sandhill View, Pennywell

Cluster 2
Venerable Bede, Hetton, St Aidan’s, St Anthony’s

Cluster 3
St Robert’s, Washington, Oxclose, Biddick

Cluster 4
Houghton Kepier, Hylton Red House, Monkwearmouth, Castleview
Sunderland Futures


Pallion Centre
Harraton Centre
Sunderland’s Area Prospectus
www.sun1419.net
Coursefinder
Information
Guidance