Five-star boost for practical learning

OLDHAM pupils will be able to take diplomas in five new subjects from September, 2010.

The additions are in information technology; society, health & development; business, administration & finance; public services; and sport & active leisure.

The move takes the number of diploma subjects available in the borough’s schools and colleges to eight, adding to the three already on offer in construction & the built environment; creative & media; and engineering.

Diplomas were introduced in a bid to create a work-orientated curriculum geared to the needs of employers.

They combine classroom and practical learning and are available at three levels — foundation (worth five GCSE D to G grades) higher (seven GCSE A* to C grades) and advanced (three-and-a-half A-levels).

Schools, Oldham College and Oldham Sixth Form will teach the diplomas and 17 subjects will be available nationally by 2011.

Oldham had to pass a rigorous application process to offer the new diplomas, including showing the involvement of local employers and universities.

Schools Minister Jim Knight said: “I am extremely pleased that young people in Oldham will have the chance to study the diploma in even more subjects.

“The qualification will help students to gain the knowledge and skills they need to achieve success at university or in the career of their choice.”