Contact Strode CollegeDiplomas
If you want to search our Diploma courses, click here to reach the "14-16 Applicants" search box.
The Diploma qualification offers practical, hands-on experience as well as classroom learning. It is designed to help develop the knowledge and skills employers and universities want. The 'Diploma Route' is known as the Applied Route. Students who follow this route can either progress to employment or higher education. There is a mandatory 10 day period of work experience in a Diploma programme.
There are three levels of Diploma, each taking two years to complete:
- Foundation Diploma - a level 1 qualification, equivalent to five GCSEs at grades D to G
- Higher Diploma - a level 2 qualification, equivalent to seven GCSEs at grades A* to C
- Advanced Diploma - a level 3 qualification for those over 16, equivalent to three and a half A levels
- The Progression Diploma (also a level 3 qualification) will suit students who don't want to do a whole Diploma.
Entry Requirements
The college entry requirements for a Diploma at 14 - 16 years are negotiated with your school.
The college entry requirements for a Diploma at 16+ years are 5 GCSE Grades A* - C.
14 - 16 years
Students will be based in their own school but 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.
The Diploma is flexible, so students can combine it with GCSEs. Young people studying for Diplomas will do so along with any compulsory subjects - for example, English, maths, science and physical education in Years 10 and 11.
16 - 18 years
Students will be based in their college but may get the opportunity to learn in a different setting such as 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.
The Diploma is flexible, so students can combine it with A Levels.
Structure
Every Diploma contains a number of compulsory and optional elements. These vary between the subject areas. Students also complete a project and a period of work experience.
Useful links
It's your choice - options after 16
