Learning Providers and Advisers

This section offers general links for learning providers and advisers who work with young people aged 14 - 19 in a learning environment. Whether you are a tutor, teacher, Personal Adviser or other professional, the Hot Links will lead you to further information on education and training.

Qualifications Explained

Qualifications can be studied at different levels and it is useful to know how the different qualifications and levels relate to each other. Visit DirectGov to learn more about the changes to GCSEs and A levels and the new specialised Diplomas or visit the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) website.

14 - 19 reform

For more information on the 14 - 19 agenda and what this means for anyone giving information, advice and guidance to 14 - 19 year olds in a learning environment, visit the IAG workforce or the 14 - 19 education and skills website. Both websites contain a wealth of information, including lesson plans, tools, templates and free downloads.

The Portsmouth 14 - 19 Consortium

Hot links Explained

The 'Portsmouth 14 - 19 Consortium' is co-ordinating the introduction of the diplomas and they will be delivered through schools, colleges, training providers and employers working together.

In many cases, the courses available at a student's own school will be just what they wish to follow. However, the introduction of the new diplomas will provide opportunities for young people to select a course offered by another school, college or training provider.

Students will be based in their own school or college for most of their learning, but whilst studying for diplomas, they may get the opportunity to learn in a different setting - another school, a local college, or in the workplace. They’ll get an insight into what work is really like, helping them make decisions about the future while keeping their career options open.

DCFS - Department for Children, Families and Schools
EBP - Education Business Partnership
LSC - Learning Skills Council
QCA - Qualifications and Curriculum Authority

Strategic Director at Portsmouth City Council, Lynda Fisher said: “Diplomas are a really exciting opportunity for pupils in Portsmouth as they offer a greater range of opportunities for learning as well as the potential to study in a different school or college.”

The Diploma is part of a national programme to widen the choices available for young people to encourage them to learn for longer and gain the skills they need to succeed in work and life. Developed with employers, schools, colleges and universities, it provides a route into further or higher education or straight into the world of work.

Students began studying the Diplomas in selected schools and colleges around the country from September 2008. By 2011, 17 Diplomas will be available in England. GCSEs and A Levels can be taken as part of a Diploma course

For more information about the Diploma visit www.direct.gov.uk/diplomas or for specific information about learning opportunities in Portsmouth, go to www.myfutureinportsmouth.co.uk

For more information on the 14 - 19 Agenda and it's impact on the curriculum visit the 14 - 19 learning section of the QCA website.