New partnership to ensure successful Diploma delivery
9th May 2007
New partnership to ensure successful Diploma delivery
A new partnership between colleges and the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) has been forged to boost Diploma development.
The Association of Colleges has teamed up with QCA to launch the AoC Diploma Expert Panels.
The 14 panels, one for each Diploma ‘line of learning’, will consist of college lecturers, experts in practical learning, on hand to advise QCA over the next three years on Diploma qualifications and delivery.
“The expertise in colleges, combined with the industry know-how of Sector Skills Councils and the experience of awarding bodies is a powerful combination,” said John Brennan, Chief Executive AoC. “Between us we intend to work to make the Diplomas attractive and motivating qualifications for young people.”
The panels’ advice will cover: the blend of practical and theoretical learning in the Diplomas, techniques for motivating young learners and using the qualification to lead young people into work or a degree. They may also advise on curriculum planning and delivery, staff development and other support activities.
They were formed following feedback from a series of DfES-sponsored regional workshops, which gave college partnerships their first taste of the work in progress on Diploma qualifications.
“If we are to ensure that these qualifications do deliver what young people need then harnessing college know-how is vital,” said Dr. Brennan. “Their track record in delivering education to young people speaks for itself - two thirds of all young people aged 16-18 choose to study in colleges. We have one chance to deliver the right qualification and colleges want to play their full part in ensuring that chance is taken.”
Ken Boston, QCA Chief Executive, said;
“We welcome the partnership with AoC to help us ensure that the vision of the Diplomas that employers have worked so hard to create will open up new possibilities for innovative teaching and learning. The advice of expert practitioners alongside a curriculum designed by employers will ensure the success of these new qualifications.”
Dr Brennan dismissed the recent suggestion from the National Union for Teachers that the qualification would only be recognised ‘by the factory down the road’ as ‘totally ill-informed’.
“Rather than closing down opportunities, the intention is that the Diplomas will widen horizons and offer more choice for young people up to the age of eighteen,” he said. “It is up to all of us to ensure they get the qualification they deserve.”
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