The New Diploma

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The Diploma is an exciting new qualification for 14-19 year olds that mixes vital skills, like English, maths and ICT, with experience of what it’s like to work in a particular industry sector.

Diplomas combine theoretical study with hands-on experience and like GCSEs, A Levels and vocational qualifications, give you the opportunity to go on to college, university or work.
There are three levels of Diploma:

• Foundation Diploma (Level 1)
• Higher Diploma (Level 2)
• Advanced Diploma (Level 3)

 

In partnership with local schools, Macclesfield College offers five different Diploma subjects at each of the three levels, please click on the links below for information booklets on each subject (PDF Format):

• Business, Administration and Finance  
        BAF within Cheshire Booklet
• Creative and Media
• Engineering (Mechanical and Electrical)
• Manufacturing and Product Design
• Society, Health and Development

 

Plus Advanced Diplomas in:

• Public Services
• Sport & Active Leisure

 

What will I study?

All Diploma students, at every level, study:

• The Diploma subject – with a real emphasis on learning by doing
• A project – to allow you to learn more about an aspect of the working world that interests you and put into practice what you’re learning  
• The essential functional skills of English, Maths and ICT, taught at a level appropriate to the Diploma studied
• An extra qualification such as a GCSE, A Level or BTEC - this offers you the opportunity to carry out additional study that is related to your Diploma, or to broaden your learning by studying a subject that reflects your interests and ambitions

You will also gain generic skills such as teamwork, self management and critical thinking, as well as carrying out 10 days of work experience.

What can I go on to do?

All Diplomas provide the skills and knowledge needed for progression into employment or further study at college or university.

Universities and colleges from across the country have been involved in creating the Diplomas, and will recognise them alongside A Levels, vocational qualifications and GCSEs when assessing applications for places. 

Studying for a particular Diploma will give you an insight into what that sector is like without committing you to a certain career path. However, if you do decide to pursue your Diploma subject, then you should have an advantage when applying for further study, an apprenticeship or job.