This is a new qualification for 14-19 year olds combining theoretical and practical learning with functional skills in English, maths and ICT. It’s flexible, so students get more choice about what they learn. The 14-19 Diploma is designed to help you go on to further study, training or employment. It also gives you the chance to develop and practice work-related skills. 

The course is offered at three levels:

• Level 1: Foundation Diploma (the same as 5 GCSEs)
• Level 2: Higher Diploma (the same as 7 GCSEs)
• Level 3: Advanced Diploma (the same as 3.5 A Levels) or Progression Diploma (the same as 2.5 A Levels).

Factsheet

Who is This Course For?

This course might be right for you if you’re interested in computers and information technology and you like practical subjects, problem solving, and applying what you learn to real situations. It is also suitable for those wishing to go to university or pursue a career.

Entry Requirements

• Level 1: You do not need formal qualifications. You will have an initial assessment.
• Level 2: You should usually have 2 or more GCSEs at grade D or above or a Merit or Distinction in a relevant subject at Level 1. We may consider applications with a Pass.
• Level 3: You need to have 5 GCSEs at grades A*-C.

You will need to fill in an application form and attend an interview, which will give you the opportunity to ask detailed questions about the course. If you have any questions about whether the course is right for you, please ask Admissions for advice.

About the course

You will study by relating what you’re learning to real world situations. It means doing projects and applying what you know to solve practical, work-related problems as well as organising yourself to complete a task. You will learn how to deliver projects, create technological solutions for business, and develop the ability to work effectively in a professional environment.

Your principal learning will consist of the following:

• Level 1 (six units): technology in organisations, the impact of technology, working with people, network systems, database systems, and multimedia.
• Level 2 (seven units): the potential of technology, exploring organisations, effective communication, skills for innovation, technology systems, multimedia 60 internal, and managing projects.
• Level 3 (seven units): the potential of technology, understanding organisations, professional development, creating technology solutions, managing technology systems, multimedia and digital projects, and making projects successful.

All students will study Personal, Learning and Thinking Skills (PLTS). These are necessary for work and for general learning and include independent enquiry, creative thinking, reflective learning, team working, self-management and effective participation.

Additional Opportunities

Your Diploma will give you the opportunity to do at least 10 days’ work experience. This is a great way to use the knowledge, understanding and skills you have learnt in the classroom, and experience what work is like from the inside. You may also have the opportunity to visit organisations which use a variety of technical equipment, so that you can learn more about how this equipment is used in a workplace.

How will I be assessed?

Diplomas are assessed through a mix of exams and work marked by a teacher. Some of the units will have mini assignments which together make up one whole assignment. The different parts of the Diploma are assessed separately and the results combined to make the whole Diploma. You will get credit for each part that you achieve plus a grade for the whole Diploma.

Where next?

You keep all your options open with the Diploma. When you finish, you can stay at school or college and do another course, like the next level of Diploma, or A Levels or an NVQ. You can also go on to university, do an apprenticeship, or go into a job with training. You will receive advice and guidance to help you decide on your next step.

How to apply?

We are no longer accepting online applications for courses starting in September 2010. A limited number of places may still be available on courses starting this September. Places will be offered on a first come first served basis. See our Enrolment Information page or call 020 8326 2020 to see if places are still available on the course you wish to study.