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Where am I?: Home | Capital Skills | Vocational diplomas |
Vocational diplomas
The new diplomas are designed to become the standard vocational qualification, replacing existing diplomas such as the BTEC diplomas (at different levels) or the International Baccalaureate Diploma.
They are intended to combine practical skills and theoretical learning, allowing students to move from the classroom to the workplace.
Engaging industry
Much work has been done by sector skills councils (through projects such as Capital Skills) to prepare the ground for the new diplomas. Engaging industry in the design of the diploma courses and beginning the process of introducing students and teachers to businesses in their employment areas is essential to the success of the new diplomas.
The first five diplomas start being taught in September 2008 in the employment sectors of creative and media, information technology, health and social care, construction and the built environment and engineering.
In 2009, teaching is due to begin in five more: land-based and environmental, manufacturing; hair and beauty; business administration and finance; and hospitality and catering.
Finally, in 2010 comes four more: public services; sport and leisure; retail; and travel and tourism.
Bridging the gap
The diplomas are a way of bridging the gap between education and the workplace by combining the best elements of academic and vocational qualifications. Former education secretary, Alan Johnson, described the diplomas as: "The missing link - creating the mix of vocational and academic education which we've lacked for so long."
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Capital Skills eNewsletters Click on the links below to view previous issues of the Business Club eNewsletters relating to Capital Skills. |