Diplomas are a new qualification for 14-19 year olds that will be available in schools, colleges and other education institutions.

One of the first diplomas to be offered is the Society, Health and Development (SHD) Diploma in September 2008.

The SHD Diploma lets students develop a sound knowledge base combined with the personal, learning and thinking skills that are transferable to employment and higher education.

Why now?

With the government’s aim to raise the number of 17 year olds in full time education from 75% to 90% by 2015, the new Diploma is an exciting additional choice available to young people.

14-19 Education: the bigger picture

SHD: a new way of learning

For a long time, employers have wanted to recruit young workers who are equipped with the right skills they need to get on in work, so they can make a real contribution from the earliest opportunity.

Employers have been closely involved in the design of this new demand-led qualification through the Sector Skills Councils.

SHD is designed to provide, for the first time, a holistic programme of applied and general learning relating to the children’s services, health, community justice and adult social care sectors.