1) Are the English, Maths and IT elements 'the same' as the GCSE versions?
The English, maths and IT elements of a Diploma (which are called Functional Skills) are different to GCSEs. They focus on the use of the skills in real-life situations, including in the world of work. For example, rather than teaching how to calculate a percentage in isolation, they would focus on a situation where percentages are used eg VAT, sales, loans etc.
It is important to note, however, that young people would ALSO continue with their maths and English GCSEs (although not necessarily with IT GCSE). The Diploma learners do EXTRA maths, English and IT rather then less.
2) Does the level mean the GCSE elements may differ e.g. level 1 GCSE scores less than level 2?
Diplomas are available at levels 1, 2 and 3. The GCSEs (or A Levels or other qualifications) chosen as part of a Diploma should normally be at the same level.
A level 2 Diploma is equivalent to 7 GCSEs at grades A*-C.
A level 1 Diploma is equivalent to 5 GCSEs at grades D-G
3) Can an 'academic' child do a Diploma? Is it advisable?
An 'academic' child CAN do a Diploma, and they are definitely not aimed at the 'less academic' child. They must be confident of being able to achieve the additional maths, English and IT qualifications, for example. They will still do GCSEs (probably about 5 in total) alongside the Diploma, and will still be able to go on to do A levels or Advanced Diplomas, followed by University.
As to whether or not it is advisable, I would suggest that this depends on the individual child. Those who thrive in 'traditional' lessons and like exam-based forms of assessment, and have little interest in an 'occupational sector' such as Construction & Built Environment would probably prefer to continue with their traditional curriculum.
Those young people who enjoy the challenge of working more independently, like project work, and have a particular interest in an occupational sector that is available to them would probably enjoy and thrive on a Diploma course.
Diplomas are different, rather than better or worse - they suit different styles of learning.
4) Can someone who does not complete a Diploma course in years 10 and 11 go on to do an advanced Diploma in years 12 and 13?
This would be down to each school or college's discretion, in the same way as for learners who do not achieve GCSEs at required grades.
It would depend on reasons for non-completion, availability of resits, results of accompanying qualifications (remember that learners doing a Diploma in Y10 and Y11 would also do about 5 GCSEs, which in their own right would often be enough to allow progression onto an advanced Diploma or A Level course).
5) I assume that the Diploma replaces the traditional options selected at Year 9, with the exception of still studying GCSEs in Maths, English and IT?
At Year 9, if a learner chooses a Diploma, he or she will, as you state, still study GCSEs in Maths and English. They will also still do GCSE in Science. They will continue with Citizenship, IT, PE etc. They will ALSO have the option to choose one or two other GCSEs (the exact number depends on the school timetable), or perhaps a BTEC or similar qualification.
At Year 9, a learner could continue with the 'traditional' route of only GCSEs, as currently the majority of learners do, and choose not to do a Diploma at all.
At Year 11, learners can choose between several routes, including a Diploma with one A Level, or the usual A levels.
6) Who actually assesses pupils for the Diploma level?
The teachers at the child's normal school will suggest which level of Diploma a pupil might be most suited to. They will use previous tests, attitude, aptitude etc when making this recommendation. The Diploma teacher will also interview most learners, partly to ensure they understand what a Diploma is, partly to ensure they still want a place on a Diploma, and partly to assess the learner.
Once a Diploma course starts, there is likely to be some opportunity for a learner to move up or down a level, should this be required, within the first week or two of the course.
7) How are Diploma places awarded due to limited spaces?
Diploma places will be allocated as fairly as possible. Each school that is participating in each Diploma will have an equal number of places available for its learners. Learners will be interviewed to ensure their suitability and interest. If there is great demand, some Diplomas might be able to offer two courses.
More general Diploma questions
Questions about Diplomas and progression routes
Miscellaneous Diploma questions
Questions specific to the Gedling borough
