Year 9 - Questions and answers

In Year 9 you start to make choices about what you study next. There is now a new qualification: the Diploma in Environmental and Land-based Studies. This is an alternative to the traditional GCSE route, but one which keeps just as many options open. It could lead to further study, or to a job and training.

The Diploma in Environmental and Land-based Studies has been introduced from September 2009 with other subjects. So, once you’ve completed your Diploma, you could go on to do a Higher or Advanced Diploma in the same, or a different subject area. Or you could go on to A Levels or other courses.

Diplomas are not replacing GCSEs and A levels, but give you a different option, and you can take

some GCSEs or A levels as well. The Diploma is a qualification based around work rather than

traditional subjects and you will have opportunities to experience different styles of learning in different environments, with an emphasis on practical activities.

Below, you will find some answers to common questions about the Diploma.

Questions and answers

What will I study in my Diploma?

The Diploma combines compulsory elements and optional subjects. Compulsory courses in your Diploma cover the main things you’ll need to know about your chosen sector.

For example, in the Diploma in Environmental and Land-based Studies, there are three principal learning themes:

The productive and working environments
Plants and animals
Developing the sustainable environment

You will do English, maths and ICT, but these will overlap with what you will be covering in these subjects even if you don’t choose a Diploma.

In addition, you will choose from a range of optional subjects. For example, if you’re studying for a Diploma in Environmental and Land-based Studies, you might choose to take a GCSE in Geography. You will get the chance to spend at least 10 days working with an employer, developing these skills, and experiencing what work is like from the inside.

What qualification will I get at the end of it?

When you have finished your Diploma, you will receive either a Higher Diploma (which is equivalent to 7 GCSEs grades A* - C) or a Foundation Diploma (which is equivalent to 5 GCSEs grades D - G).

What could I do next?

There are lots of options. After doing a Foundation or Higher Diploma you could go on to take a Diploma at the next level, either in the same subject, or you could change to another area. You could also go on to do GCSEs, A levels or another qualification. You might decide instead to go on to do an Apprenticeship, or start a job. Your career adviser can help you make the right choice.

Will the Diploma help me get a good job?

The Diploma was developed with employers, to help students get the skills, knowledge and experience they need to do well. Employers know that a Diploma student has the range of skills they are looking for.

Will I be able to get into university with the Diploma?

Taking a Diploma can be the first step towards college or university. If you go on to do an Advanced Diploma, universities will regard it as broadly equivalent to 3.5 A levels.