September 2008

The British Safety Council (BSC) has been appointed as one of the Government’s Champions for the new 14-19 Diploma which will allow students to combine academic study and work-based learning.    

Developed with the help of over 5,000 employers, the Diploma puts the employer firmly in the driving seat of what young people learn, making them better prepared for work.  As well as developing knowledge of their chosen discipline, Diploma students will be expected to achieve a certain standard in English, Maths and ICT.  Project work and a minimum of ten days work experience will provide students with skills that are essential for success in employment such as time management, teamworking and problem-solving.
 
There will be 17 Diplomas to choose from including Construction and the Built Environment; Business, Administration and Finance; Creative and Media; Information Technology; Manufacturing and Product Design; Retail Business; Science; and Languages.
 
Schools and colleges in 146 areas across England will offer the Diploma from September 2008. More will start teaching it from September 2009 when 72% of schools and 88% of colleges in England will offer the qualification in ten subjects.  The full 17 subjects will be available by 2011.
 
As one of the government’s Diploma Champions, the BSC will be helping its member organisations get involved with the Diploma.  And, by getting involved, you can help make sure that local teenagers get the skills that are important to your company.
 
There are many ways in which your organisation can help:
 
- Sending staff into schools to help deliver the Diploma
- Hosting workplace visits by Diploma students
- Providing resources, equipment and use of premises
- Allowing teachers to shadow you in your workplace
- Providing ‘Masterclasses’ in specialist areas of your work
- Offering work experience placements for Diploma students

BSC Chief Executive Brian Nimick says: “It is so important for young people to be able to apply the skills that they learn in the classroom to real situations in the workplace.  Partnerships between employers and schools, and the increased emphasis on work experience, will better equip these students for a successful working life.  I would urge all BSC Members to support their local schools and colleges in whatever way they can.”

If your organisation would like to help local schools and colleges bring learning to life, please contact the BSC’s 14-19 Diploma Co-ordinator, Ian Millward, on 020 8600 1037; e-mail: [email protected]
 
To find out more about the Diploma visit www.dcsf.gov.uk/14-19/employers