Diploma lines of learning

Diplomas are exciting and innovative new qualifications for 14 to 19 year olds. They have been created to provide a real alternative to more traditional education and qualifications.

All diplomas have been developed by employers, schools, colleges and universities to help young people of all abilities realise their potential and gain the knowledge and skills needed in a 'real world' environment.

A diploma is an all round package which gives students the knowledge, insight, attitude and experience to prepare them for the next stage in life - whether that is employment, further or higher education.

From September 2008 diplomas will be available in:

• Construction & the built environment
• Society, health and development
• Creative & media
• Information technology
• Engineering

The second 5 lines of learning, available from September 2009, will be:

• Environmental and land-based studies
• Hair and beauty studies
• Business, administration and finance
• Manufacturing and product design
• Hospitality

From 2010:

• Public services
• Retail
• Sport and leisure
• Travel and tourism

From 2011:

• Science
• Languages
• Humanities