Learners motivated by practical learning in Diplomas

26 Oct 2010

Diplomas are enthusing learners but weaknesses remain, according to a report published today by Ofsted, the Office for Standards in Education, Children’s Services and Skills.

Some aspects of the Diploma – especially the main subject content known as ‘principal learning’ – are working well, but the qualification as a whole is proving complex and challenging for both learners and providers. Learners are particularly enthusiastic about the opportunities Diplomas offer them to develop their vocational skills using industry standard equipment, but the teaching of related skills in English, mathematics and information and communications technology (ICT) is too variable.

The report, Diplomas: the second year, reports that while Her Majesty’s Inspectors found strengths in the main subject content of Diplomas (the ‘principal learning’), the delivery of the ‘functional skills’ of English, mathematics and ICT was often weak. When taught in isolation from the vocational content of the Diploma –sometimes in a different institution - the lack of connection left learners struggling to develop and apply functional skills.

Related Links
Read the Diplomas: the second year report

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Learners motivated by practical learning in Diplomas

26 Oct 2010

Diplomas are enthusing learners but weaknesses remain, according to a report published by Ofsted

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Learners motivated by practical learning in Diplomas

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