Diploma D-Day

Hundreds of teenagers from across Bournemouth and Poole enjoyed hands-on fun at the local launch day of the government’s new diploma qualification.

More than 250 year nine pupils from eight secondary schools tried a range of activities linked to diplomas including staging a fashion show, robotic programming and planning a marketing campaign.

The event at AFC Bournemouth was designed to give the youngsters and parents a realistic insight into the new qualification, and discover which careers it opens up.

“They were all very enthusiastic and excited, and interested in what careers diplomas lead to,” said Caroline Foster, 14-19 strategic leader for the conurbation.

From next September eleven diploma subjects will be available across Bournemouth and Poole. Young people can choose one as part of their year 10 and 11 options or for post-16 study.

Designed to be a flexible qualification, they can be studied at school or college and are different from GCSEs and A-levels because practical and work experience is built into the curriculum.

For more details about diplomas visit www.14-19matters.co.uk or call (01202) 652692.