The new Specialised Diplomas in 14 subjects are being gradually introduced over the next few years. Engineering will be piloted in 2007, and Manufacturing in 2008.
The 14 SD subjects are currently as follows:
- Engineering
- Manufacturing
- Construction
- Land-based & Environmental
- Public Services
- Hair & Beauty
- Sport & Leisure
- Retail
- Health & Social Care
- Hospitality & Catering
- Creative & Media
- Business Administration & Finance
- Travel & Tourism
- ICT
As you can see, Applied Science does not appear on this list.
QCA is now consulting on whether Applied Science should be added.
For consideration
Two points that you may like to consider are:
- There are already significant changes underway at GCSE to make science more interesting and relevant to the majority of students. Is an Applied Science Diploma therefore necessary?
- There is already a vocational GCSE in Applied Science (worth 2 GCSEs), a BTEC First in Applied Science, and an A level in Applied Science. Is there therefore a need for a Specialised Diploma at three levels?
Whatever your views, please make them known via the online survey at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=426692762191
The survey will close on 11th November 2006, so responses should be submitted as soon as possible.
Text added 27 October 2006