In December 2007 the Universities & Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) announced the number of points that will be awarded for 14-19 Diplomas within the UCAS tariff scheme. This effectively determines how much diplomas are worth in terms of getting a place on a HE course. It will also help to display the levels of Diplomas to employers.
The new Diploma is an alternative to the traditional GCSE or A level route. It offers a mix of classroom learning, creative thinking and hands-on experience. It aims to help young people to develop the skills and experience that are valued by employers and which universities and colleges look for in potential students.
There are three main levels of Diploma, with a fourth also available in some circumstances.
- Foundation - takes roughly the same amount of time as 4-5 GCSEs, is worth 5 D-G grades at GCSE level and can start in Year 10 or above.
- Higher - takes approximately the same amount of time as 5-6 GCSEs, is worth 7 A*-C grades at GCSE level and can also be started in Year 10 or above.
- Advanced - lasts approximately the same time as 3 A Levels, is worth 3.5 A Levels and can start at Year 12 or above.
A Progression Diploma is also on offer, which can be chosen if the pupil wants to take a smaller programme or combine the Diploma with another qualification. It is worth 2 A Levels.
Anthony McClaran, UCAS Chief Eexcutive, welcomed the inclusion of Diplomas in the UCAS tariff 'The recognition of the Diploma within the UCAS tariff places the new qualification firmly within the spectrum of routes for entry to higher education.'
More information on Diplomas in relation to the UCAS tariff is available from; www.ucas.ac.uk
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