Diplomas were introduced earlier this year by the government. They are new qualifications for 14-19 year olds that will provide a broad programme of applied and other learning, underpinned by essential skills.

The government has responded to employers  who want young people with good skills, particularly in the basics, and the ability to apply these. They want young people who have some experience of work and are able to make well-informed career choices.

Diplomas mean that young people will be able to meet these expectations because they will have succeeded across a programme of learning covering English, Maths and ICT, employability skills such as team working and problem solving, and the work skills and knowledge needed to get on in industries such as engineering.

Through the development of the Engineering Diploma, this is the first time that employers have been able to take an active role in developing a new qualification.

The Engineering Diploma Development Partnership is seeking  views on what employers  want the diploma to consist of, so these ideas can help shape the development process.

As the diploma is being developed, employers can get involved in two ways:

• by filling in the online feedback form on the website
• by registering details for news and updates and joining the virtual advisory group

Timescales & Implementation

Initial content development is ongoing to March 2006.

Consulation on the draft content will take place between March and June 2006.

Awarding bodies will be developing specifications and curriculum from June 2006 until June 2007.

The Engineering Diploma is planned for launch in schools in September 2008.