Specialised Diplomas are qualifications that provide an exciting, stretching and relevant programme of learning for young people of all backgrounds and abilities. They will offer a real alternative to traditional learning styles through an imaginative, high quality blend of general education and applied learning. Because of the way employers and educators are brought together to develop them, Diplomas will help prepare students for life, learning and work.

The 14-19 Education and Skills White Paper, published in February 2005, set out the Government’s proposals to improve secondary, post 16 and further education. These proposals intend to enrich the curriculum so that young people can learn in ways that motivate and engage them, and enable them to obtain qualifications which will set them up for success in life. Key to these changes is the introduction of Specialised Diplomas.

Each Diploma will have pathways to accommodate a wide range of aspirations so that they will appeal to young people preparing for the most demanding university course, those planning to enter the workforce directly from their Diploma studies, and those who are unsure in which direction they wish to progress.

Diplomas will be available in 14 lines of learning at Levels 1, 2 and 3, covering all the sectors of the economy. See below.

The development of the Business, Administration and Finance Diploma is being led by the Financial Services Skills Council (FSSC) which is supported in the development by Council for Administration (CfA) and Skillsmart Retail Limited.

Sector Skills Councils (SSCs) are leading the design of the Diplomas.

Diploma Development Partnerships (DDPs) have been set up with representation from employers, higher education, schools, colleges, professional bodies and awarding bodies to design the Business, Administration and Finance Diploma to ensure it meets the needs of all stakeholders.

Awarding bodies will develop the qualifications in partnership with the DDPs and the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA) will be responsible for accrediting the Diplomas before they are taught by schools, colleges and other providers.