The general aims of the Diplomas are identified in Section 2 of the document Criteria for accreditation of Foundation, Higher and Advanced Diploma qualifications (Ofqual/08/3990).
The purpose of the Diploma in science at Advanced level is to give learners an insight into how science is practised, and to understand its impact on society in the context of the major challenges of the 21st century. Through their studies learners will develop fundamental scientific and mathematical skills, knowledge and understanding that will enable them to tackle these challenges and related problems and questions with due consideration to social, moral, ethical and political issues and human and environmental consequences. This will include consideration of these major challenges from UK, European and international perspectives.
The Diploma in science at Advanced level will appeal particularly to those learners who:
- are interested to find out how people use science in their work and enjoy studying science as it is used in authentic contexts
- prefer an experiential approach to learning that involves extensive practical, experimental and investigative work
- want to study a broad spectrum of scientific ideas, concepts and practices
- see value in having a broad understanding of science at level 3 given the contribution of multidisciplinary teams to scientific developments.
Principal learning provides the essential knowledge, skills and understanding for all learners within the sector(s) covered. Additional and specialist learning enables learners to acquire a deeper understanding and/or application of the topics covered in principal learning or to explore a related topic with a more local focus.
Each Diploma in science will:
- enable individuals to acquire relevant personal, learning and thinking skills (PLTS) in a science context
- give opportunities to practise and acquire essential functional skills in English, mathematics and information and communication technology (ICT) that are relevant to the level and delivered in the context of science
- support progression to employment, science and science-related further and higher education courses, and a range of Advanced Apprenticeships such as laboratory technicians, pharmacy technicians and assistants, dental nursing, engineering technology and polymer processing
- aid effective transition to further education, work-based learning or higher education and to working life by providing a wide range of transferable skills and knowledge
- provide a motivating learning experience through a blend of general education and applied learning within a coherent and stimulating programme.
