7.The Diploma is a qualification that was introduced following the publication of the 14–19 Education and Skills White Paper in 2005. Diploma qualifications were first recognised as regulated qualifications in summer 2007 and taught in centres from September 2008. The first awards were made to learners in August 2009.

8.The Diploma is a composite qualification awarded for the successful achievement of three elements: principal learning, generic learning and additional and specialist learning. Principal learning is a single qualification in the subject matter of the Diploma. Generic learning includes functional skills qualifications in English, mathematics and ICT and a project qualification; learners are also expected to complete a minimum of 10 days’ work experience and achieve six personal, learning and thinking skills. The additional and specialist learning element gives the student some choice about the extra qualifications that make up their Diploma from a list of approved options. Learners must complete all elements to gain their Diploma.

9.We regulate awarding organisations to check that appropriate standards for the qualification are being set and maintained. We specify and keep under review the requirements that awarding organisations must meet to deliver Diplomas and their components appropriately, consistently and on time. We also scrutinise the performance of awarding organisations that award qualifications and grades to see whether they are doing this appropriately and consistently and take action if they are not. We do not set any requirements for the Diploma around its teaching, funding or treatment in school accountability measures as such matters fall outside our responsibilities.

10.We are now consulting on changes to the regulations for the Diploma.