Last updated: 04 Apr 2008

Check back here regularly for the latest news from QCA about the Diploma. Use the links to the right of the page to access archived news content.

Publication of draft Line of Learning statements

On 2 April, draft Line of Learning statements for Diplomas in public services, retail, sport and leisure and travel and tourism were published by relevant Diploma development partnerships :

• public services
• retail
• sport and leisure
• travel and tourism

The Line of Learning statements inform and guide the development of the Line of Learning criteria. QCA is consulting on the criteria during May and June 2008, and changes may be made to Line of Learning statements as a result of the consultation. The finalised Line of Learning statements will be available by 31 July 2008.

The future is now

If you missed Teresa Bergin's speech at the launch of the phase 4 Diploma development partnerships on 2 April, you can read it here.

The Extended Diploma

On 7 March 2008, Secretary of State Ed Balls announced an expansion of the existing Diploma programme, with the introduction of Extended Diplomas from 2011.

Available at levels 1, 2 and 3, the Extended Diplomas will feature a further block of additional and/or specialist learning, and an 'extended core' of mathematics and English content.

More information is available from the DCSF press release archive.

Latest updates (March 2008)

• We have released new introductory information on the Diploma aggregation service, including a factsheet for exam centres and awarding bodies.
• We have created a new area for information about the phase 3 Diplomas (public services, retail, travel & tourism, sport & leisure)

Diploma promotional postcards for professionals

QCA has published a series of promotional postcards to promote QCA resources amongst 14-19 partnerships, successful consortia, Connexions partnerships and other Diploma stakeholders. Copies are available by emailing diploma@qca.org.uk

National Diploma consumer campaign update

For the latest on the national awareness-raising Diploma campaign, visit www.direct.gov.uk/diplomas

You can listen to the current radio adverts by following the links below.

Listen to the Creative and Media radio advert

Listen to the Construction and the Built Environment radio advert

Listen to the Engineering radio advert

Listen to the IT radio advert

Listen to the Society, Health and Development radio advert.