IT Diploma

What we are doing We will be running the Diploma from September 2008 (AQA) 15 students at present split between level 1 and level 2 More expected for a post 16 one year level 2 course after GCSE results Working closely with Shaftesbury – expect to have students in year 10 and 12 Intend to offer an option for level 3 from September 2009 – discussions with B&P College ongoing

Issues with the qualification 1 Movement between levels Ceiling on level 1 Drop off at level 2 Size of the level 2 offering Functional skills

Issues with the qualification 2 Timing of introduction The value of the qualification The place of the qualification Pupil/teacher ratio Training requirements

The Award Spilt into 3 parts 1. Principal learning, Project and PLTs The IT (Dictates the final grade) 2. Functional skills Maths, English and IT 3. Additional specialist learning Other GCSE or Diploma Catalogue qualification

Issues with the award Combination of examining bodies Complexity of entry Points where/how Lateness of support materials APA/APL

Organisational issues 1 Diploma centre responsible for the Principal learning, the Project and the PLTs Home centre responsible for the Functional skills and the Additional Specialist Learning Diploma centre responsible for the entry and issuing of the award Named link person for Diploma in each institution

Organisational issues 2 Reporting systems – dates, formats, etc. Parent’s evenings Trips/visits Work experience Transport Timings of day Communication