Young people who are currently around the ages of 9–11 will have a new suite of qualifications available to them at the age of 14, when they choose their options.

This Government initiative is being led by the Department for Education and Skills, the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority and the Sector Skills Development Agency. There are 14 new Diplomas being developed relating to different sectors of the economy and each Diploma development is being led by the appropriate Sector Skills Council.

The Financial Services Skills Council, with its partners Council for Administration and Skillsmart Retail Ltd, is leading on the development of the Business, Administration and Finance Diploma.

For some time now, employers have been telling us they are disappointed with the knowledge and skills young people bring to employment. So, we have consulted with employers extensively to make sure the Business, Administration and Finance Diploma can prepare young people for employment.

We are also consulting with other key stakeholders including employers, higher education institutions, schools, colleges, training providers, professional bodies and awarding bodies.