A diploma is a brand new qualification designed to give you a head start in your chosen job area. It combines academic and practical learning and is designed to give you valuable knowledge, skills and experience.

Diplomas will include a minimum of ten days’ work experience and you get to do a project of your choice. When you have finished you will also have the right standards in English, Maths and ICT to get you into further education, work based learning or employment. 

You could also gain traditional qualifications, such as GCSEs or A Levels at the same time as doing a Diploma.

Once you progress to the higher Diploma levels you can get UCAS points for university entry.