The sky's the limit at Yeovil College

You are here: Home » Full-time » 14-19 Diplomas

Print

14-19 Diplomas

 

Diplomas Explained

What are Diplomas?
Diplomas are an exciting new qualification for students of all abilities and aspirations who like to learn in a more pracitcal way.  They are being phased in across the country between now and 2013 as part of a national programme to provide young people with more options.

Diplomas are offered at Foundation, Higher and Advanced levels by the South Somerset 14-19 Partnership. All secondary schools in the Yeovil area, Yeovil College, Paragon Training and Windmill Training are in this partnership and are working together to develop and provide a whole range of Diplomas.

These qualifications will combine theorectial study with practical skills in a way that reflects modern industry pracice and devlops skills highly valued by employers and universities.

Diploma students will be based at Yeovil College, but may have the chance to do some of their learning in other schools, colleges or in the work place.

From September 2010, Yeovil College is offering Diplomas in:

Engineering (Foundation and Advanced Levels)

Business (Foundation, Higher and Advanced Levels)

Creative & Media (Higher and Advanced Levels)

Subject to approval, we may also be offering the following Diplomas at a later date; Hospitality, Public Services, Society, Health & Development and Sport & Active Leisure.

Additional information can be found on the 14-19 Diplomas website.

Course Duration:

Foundation Level: Two years full-time (equivalent to five GCSEs at grades D to G)
Higher Level: Two years full-time (equivalent to seven GCSEs at grades A* to C)
Advanced Level: Two years full-time (equivalent to 3.5 A Levels)

How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed through practical application of knowledge, written assignment and an extended project on the topic of your choice.  Students can also opt to take an additional or specialist activity which may help to broaden the learning experience.  One unit of study will be assessed by way of written examination.

At Foundation and Higher level, you will also complete functional skills assessments in English, Maths and ICT.

Specific Entry Requirements:

Foundation Level: Based on aptitude and interest.
Higher Level: A range of D grades at GCSE or a Foundation Diploma.
Advanced Level: At least five A* to C grade GCSEs or a Higher Diploma.

Progression:
Students can progress through each level of a Diploma or move on to the next level on a different course.  Students achieving an Advanced Diploma can progress to a degree-level qualification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Information for Parents 

Information for Students