The Diploma is a new programme which will be in Sandwell from September 2009. Diplomas are designed to help learners develop the skills, knowledge and personal qualities required for success in the world of work and how to get there. They will include projects developed by employers and work related learning such as work experience.

Diplomas will be offered at 3 levels:

• Foundation - Level 1 qualification equivalent to 5 GCSEs at grades D - G.
• Higher - Level 2 qualification equivalent to 7 GCSEs at grades A* - C.
• Advanced - Level 3 qualification equivalent to, for example, 3.5 A levels grade A* - E.

A Progression Diploma at Level 3 is also available for those not wishing to complete a full Advanced Diploma. This is equivalent to 2.5 A levels.

From September 2009 two Diplomas will be available in Sandwell. These are:
• Creative and Media led by Stuart Bathurst Catholic High School College of Performing Arts.
• Engineering led by Manor Foundation Business Enterprise and Sports College and Wolverhampton University.
Numbers will be small to start but will increase over future years.

We are currently developing a Diploma section on this site to keep you fully up to speed with developments. Other Diplomas are expected to become available soon.