Universities get serious about the Diploma

24 October 2008

Universities get serious about the Diploma
Stephen Grundy, National Higher Education Programme Co-ordinator, SSAT

There is growing evidence that universities are getting to grips with the Diploma. Within such a big sector, comprising so many different institutions and individuals, there will be a range of different opinions and views. However, opinions are perhaps not as clear-cut as some critics assume.

For instance, one of the most vocal supporters of the Diploma from within the HE sector has been the Vice Chancellor of a Russell Group institution - the group often unhelpfully described as the 'elite' institutions.

Professor Michael Arthur, VC at University of Leeds, told us:

"Diplomas, which are not so much a qualification as an over-arching framework bringing together academic and vocational elements… are designed to be flexible, allowing young people to study to a range of levels, so individuals can follow the route best suiting their ability and aspirations and providing the necessary stretch...

Diplomas will offer a new way of learning, which provides an educational framework that will be interesting, challenging, and stretching for the brightest youngsters while also stimulating young people across a whole range of abilities."

Professor Arthur is more than qualified to offer an informed perspective on the Diploma.

"I have been closely involved in the development of the entire suite of Diplomas, which will combine work-based training with classroom study for 14-to-19 year olds."

Indeed Professor Arthur is part of the Department of Children, Schools and Families' experts' advisory group on the Diploma and the 14-19 reforms.

In a further endorsement of the Diploma, he added:

"Students taking Diplomas will gain the experience of learning in a practical environment. In so doing they will understand context and achieve deep learning. They will also develop skills in critical thinking, independent learning, teamwork, problem-solving and communication."

These skills are very much those being called for by both universities and employers.

While it is true that the Diploma might not be the most appropriate entry route into all higher education courses, it is very clear that universities of all shapes and sizes have been doing a great deal of work to prepare to admit students from this route wherever it is appropriate. There are indeed very encouraging signs in terms of progression into HE via the Diploma.

The University of Leeds, for instance, has employed a full-time member of staff, in a brand new post working with admissions officers, to review the entry requirements of every course it runs. This is to enable entry via the Diploma wherever it is appropriate.

The general message is loud and clear - universities are serious about the Diploma. It will be a valid and accepted entry route to appropriate courses. Furthermore, there is widespread recognition that the Diploma has the potential to provide students not only with the knowledge but also the skills they need to succeed in higher-level studies.

The UCAS website has an extensive list of university and college statements on the Diploma.