Level 5 standalone specialist diplomas (6503)

The qualifications cover the knowledge and skills required by specialist teachers/trainers in the further education and skills sector, such as:

The theories and frameworks of the specialism

There is a requirement for a minimum of 50 hours teaching/training practice for the single specialist qualifications and 70 hours teaching/training practice for the combined Literacy and ESOL qualification.

The Level 5 stand alone specialist diplomas in education and training are qualifications which extend into investigation and research into current practice and the theories and models relating to education and training, in the context of the specialism selected.  Throughout the programme, candidates will demonstrate their ability to transfer the findings of their research into their own practice.

The qualifications may allow candidates to progress into employment as teachers/trainers or to one of the following City ad Guilds qualifications:-

9200 Professional recognition qualifications

6502 Level 5 generic  Diploma in Education and Training

There are mandatory units and option units within these qualifications.  For a single specialism, (English, Mathematics, ESOL, Disabled Learners) candidates must achieve 45 credits, and for the Literacy and ESOL combined specialism,  candidates must achieve 60 credits  Some of the knowledge only units in these qualifications also appear as option units in the generic 6502 Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training.  There is no requirement to complete these units again if a candidate has achieved them through the generic diploma route. All observations must be in the specialist context.

Suggested assessment activities are provided in the form of example assignments in an assessment pack, available on the City & Guilds website. www.cityandguilds.com

All those delivering these qualifications and/or observing and assessing practice must be able to demonstrate that they meet the following occupational expertise requirements. They must have:

• A teaching qualification equivalent to Level 5 or above;
• A Level 4 specialist  qualification or Level 5 Additional Diploma or equivalent qualification in the relevant specialist area;
• Evidence of teaching experience in the particular specialist context
• In depth knowledge of the specialist area
• Access to appropriate guidance and support
• On-going participation  in related programme quality assurance processes

The qualifications may allow candidates to progress into employment as teachers/trainers  and specialist teachers of maths, English and Special Educational Needs