A firm foundation
Providing young people with the education and training that they need to embark on successful and fulfilling careers is crucial to sustained economic growth. This year we joined together with the Assessment and Qualifications Alliance (AQA) to develop new Diplomas for 14 to 19 year olds.

These qualifications, on target to be launched in 2008, will combine training in practical skills with theoretical and technical understanding and knowledge. The first five Diplomas in development cover the important areas of Construction and the Built Environment, Creative and Media, Engineering, Health and Social Care, and IT. Whilst focusing on learning specific to each sector the Diplomas will also cover English, Maths, ICT, personal learning and thinking skills. They will be offered alongside traditional A levels and GCSEs, providing young people with the flexibility needed to have a full and varied education, earning qualifications that are valued and recognised both by employers and by the higher education sector.