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Students in Portsmouth will be the first in the region to get the chance to find out more about one of the biggest changes to education in a generation as the Diploma roadshow visits the Mountbatten Centre on 14 October.
The Diploma is a new qualification for 14-19 year olds that combines learning in the classroom with practical experience. Over the next five years, 17 new Diploma qualifications will be introduced in Portsmouth with Diplomas in Engineering, IT, Construction, Hospitality and Catering, Hair and Beauty and Society Health and Development available to study in selected schools and colleges across the city from September 2009.
12 other diplomas will be introduced before 2013, with bids being made this autumn to offer diplomas in Retail Business, Sport and Active Leisure, Public Services and Travel and Tourism.
The roadshow’s visit is part of a national tour to inform young people about the Diploma. Students in Year 9 and Year 11 will be given the chance to find out more by using touch screen kiosks and taking part in discussions in innovative inflatable pods.
All secondary schools and special schools with secondary aged pupils in Portsmouth are currently looking at the choice of diplomas and selecting ones that they feel able to provide and ensure they offer a broad and balanced curriculum.
The 'Portsmouth 14 - 19 Consortium' is co-ordinating the introduction of the diplomas and they will be delivered through schools, colleges, training providers and employers working together.
In many cases, the courses available at a student's own school will be just what they wish to follow. However, the introduction of the new diplomas will provide opportunities for young people to select a course offered by another school, college or training provider.
Students will be based in their own school or college for most of their learning, but whilst studying for diplomas, they may get the opportunity to learn in a different setting - another school, a local college, or in the workplace. They’ll get an insight into what work is really like, helping them make decisions about the future while keeping their career options open.
Strategic Director at Portsmouth City Council, Lynda Fisher said: “Diplomas are a really exciting opportunity for pupils in Portsmouth as they offer a greater range of opportunities for learning as well as the potential to study in a different school or college.”
The Diploma is part of a national programme to widen the choices available for young people to encourage them to learn for longer and gain the skills they need to succeed in work and life. Developed with employers, schools, colleges and universities, it provides a route into further or higher education or straight into the world of work.
Students began studying the Diplomas in selected schools and colleges around the country from September. By 2011, 17 Diplomas will be available in England. GCSEs and A Levels can be taken as part of a Diploma course
For more information about the Diploma visit www.direct.gov.uk/diplomas or for specific information about learning opportunities in Portsmouth, go to www.mfip.co.uk
Portsmouth City Council
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023 9283 4092
general@portsmouthcc.gov.uk