KIRKLEES students have a new alternative to GCSEs and A-levels in which they apply classroom learning in a working environment.
The diploma, developed with universities and employers, is available to 14-year-olds, when they make their GCSE choices, and to 16-year-olds in sixth-forms and colleges.
There are two diplomas on offer already in Kirklees but from September a further five will be introduced in colleges in construction and the built environment, engineering, hair and beauty studies, business, administration and finance and information technology.
Connexions adviser, Maggie Cowan said: “The range of options available for young people in Huddersfield and Kirklees means that they can study a subject they are interested in, in a way that suits their needs and strengths.
“The diploma gives young people a combination of learning techniques which combines traditional and applied practical learning.”
There are three levels of diploma – foundation, higher and advanced – that are graded the same way as GCSEs and A-levels.
The foundation is worth five GCSEs, with the higher diploma equivalent to seven.
An advanced diploma, worth three-and-a-half A-levels, can get young people into university.
