Engineering Specialised Diploma - Learning Outcomes and Content published

The Engineering Specialised Diploma, due for launch in September 2008, has moved to the next phase of development

Common features of Specialised Diplomas

Purpose

Specialised Diplomas are qualifications that will provide an exciting, stretching and relevant programme of learning for all young people. Each Diploma will have pathways to accommodate a wide range of aspirations. They are being designed to appeal to the most capable students preparing for the most demanding university courses, to students who would engage better with the innovative diploma approach than with existing provision, and, where appropriate, to students planning to enter the workforce directly from their diploma studies.

Diplomas will give young people a real alternative to traditional learning styles by offering an imaginative, high quality blend of general education and applied learning.

Above all, Specialised Diplomas will help young people of all abilities to realise their potential. Students need the education to thrive in a constantly changing global economy; the Diploma brings together employers and educators to help prepare students for life and work.

What will Diplomas look like?

Diplomas will be available at Levels 1, 2 and 3. In terms of workload and achievement, Level 1 will be equivalent to four to five GCSEs at grades D-G (600 guided learning hours) and Level 2 to five to six GCSEs at grades A*-C (800 guided learning hours), while Level 3 will be equivalent to three A levels (1080 guided learning hours). A level 3 progression qualification equivalent to two A levels (720 guided learning hours) will also be available.

Diplomas at all levels will incorporate:

Principal Learning – this will develop knowledge, understanding and skills relevant to a broad economic sector, using realistic contexts and leading-edge sector relevant materials.

Additional/specialist learning – this will allow learners to tailor their programme according to interests and aspirations. This may include further specialisation, or complementary studies.

Generic learning - this will ensure that all Diploma students cover common generic skills which are relevant to successful learning and future employment. This includes personal learning and thinking skills (PLTS), a project and maths, English and ICT user skills (functional skills) and work experience. This generic learning will often be embedded across the Principal Learning of the Diploma.

Details on the structure, assessment and grading of the Specialised Diploma have been published by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) and can be found at www.qca.org.uk/1158_15782.html.

The Engineering Specialised Diploma

Purpose

Overall:
To provide, through a blend of general education and applied learning a programme which:

gives young people up to the minute skills, knowledge and understanding of the costs and benefits of engineering;
develops an understanding of the crucial role of engineering in shaping the world in which we live;
develops essential transferable skills associated with problem-solving, creative thinking, team working, communication and generating ideas.

Level 1:
To provide an introductory programme that:

stimulates and engages learners to pursue a career in engineering;
challenges preconceptions and explores opportunities in engineering;
gives learners an understanding of the ‘made world’ and the wonderful variety of choices available.

Level 2:
To provide a programme that develops a broad understanding and working knowledge of:

career opportunities available in engineering;
selected engineering specialisms;
general engineering principles that cover all the sectors and industries;
maths and science skills applied in engineering business contexts.

Level 3:
To provide a programme that develops a range of analytical and investigative skills and knowledge in relation to:

the ‘real world’ business context for engineering which is future orientated;
innovation and entrepreneurship, business and risk management in engineering;
advanced level engineering topics;
applied engineering science and maths that meet higher education entry and employer requirements.

Details of the Principle Learning Themes and Additional/Specialist Topics and Pathways can be found here.

Text from Annex to DfES press notice 2006/0116