14-19 Diplomas

This is an exciting time for young people. Through the new diplomas, as well as time spent studying at a school or college, you will have access to valuable experience in a business setting or workplace.

How many Diplomas?
How many Levels?
How long does it take?
What is different about the diploma?
What will I study?
What Qualification will I get at the end of it?
Can I get a job or go to University with a Diploma?

How many Diplomas?
Newham College will be offering 8 diplomas from September 2009.

How many Levels?
The Diploma is offered at 3 Levels at Newham College.

Foundation Diploma equivalent to 5 GSCE grades D-G
Higher Diploma equivalent to 7 GCSE grades A*-C
Advanced Diploma equivalent to 3.5 A Level grades A*-E

How long does it take?
Level 1-The Foundation Diploma: takes 1 year to complete.
Level 2-The Higher Diploma: takes 1 year to complete.
Level 3-The Advanced Diploma: takes 2 years to complete.

After completing each level you a have the option of moving to the next level or transferring to another Diploma.

What is different about the diploma?
The diploma is linked to real work. Every diploma is focused on a particular sector, so you learn about all the different aspects of and job opportunities in your chosen sector. For example by pursuing an Advanced Diploma in Engineering, you gain sound knowledge about the Engineering industry so that you can decide which area interests you. Whether your career path is in aeronautical, automotive, chemical or electronic engineering, you will find the area that best suits you.

What will I study?
This will vary according to the diploma you choose but every Diploma has the following:

Principal learning- information and experiences relating to the sector you have chosen.
Functional skills- English, Maths and Information Technology
Work and life skills-you will develop your skills in creative thinking, independent enquiry, management and team work
Work experience- a minimum of 10 days work experience
Individual project- you will complete a student project which will give you the opportunity to apply what you have learnt in a practical context
Additional and specialist learning-an opportunity to learn a different subject from what is within the diploma or to specialise in a subject relating to the diploma

What qualification will I get at the end of it?
You will get the Foundation, Higher or Advanced Diploma depending on which level you start at.

Can I get a job or go to university with the Diploma?
Employers are very involved in planning and helping us to deliver the Diploma. This qualification will give you the skills and knowledge that employers and education institutions value. The advanced diploma is equivalent to 3.5 A Levels which you can use to apply for a job or to university. The Diploma does not qualify you to practice independently.