The Diploma in Environmental and Land-based Studies is part of a range of new qualifications in England, aimed at young people aged between 14 and 19 years.
Diplomas are the most significant development in education since the introduction of GCSEs.
The Diploma provides young people with practical skills, knowledge and understanding related to one of fourteen different sectors, combined with functional skills in English, maths and ICT. Available at four levels, they help learners to progress more effectively into employment, training and further or higher education.
Some 53 partnerships of schools, colleges and employers are approved to start teaching from September 2009, with a further 67 approved to start in 2010. By 2013 every young person in England will have the opportunity to study the Diploma in Environmental and Land-based Studies.
