Employers will help new diploma scheme

Wed 20 Aug 2008 at 3:27 PM

Employers will develop work experience and projects for a new diploma qualification to be introduced to schools.

Students across the country will start studying for diplomas at three different levels from next month.

The new qualification will "recognise that some people learn in different ways and in different environments," according to Maggie Cowan, careers advisor for Connexions.

"Hopefully it will help to motivate them and put pressure on people who are sometimes inclined not to stay in education and achieve their full potential."

Each diploma will have at least ten days work experience and "really interesting, real-life projects, from real employers," she added.

By getting a taste of working life it is hoped young people will be better prepared when they enter the workforce.

The overall UK pass rate for A-level qualifications reached 97.2 per cent this year, leading to calls for the standard to be reviewed.


click here for the latest employment opportunities