Due to be available in schools from September 2008, the Diploma is a new, innovative qualification to motivate and enthuse young people between the ages of 14 and 19. It will combine practical skill development with theoretical and technical understanding and knowledge.

The Diploma has four components:

• principal learning – students develop knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes relevant to a sector and are given opportunities to apply these to work roles or situations and realistic contexts
• additional/specialist learning – students choose from a range of options endorsed by employers
• generic learning – recognised by employers as a vitally important component, this requires students to develop personal, learning and thinking skills and complete a project
• work placement – a placement of at least 10 days is required for completion of the Diploma

EDI is recognised as a Diploma Awarding Body with qualifications listed in the additional/specialist learning catalogue and is currently developing the principal learning for the following lines:

• Society, health and development
• Business administration and finance
• Hospitality

The 'Project' Qualification

EDI has been accredited to award the Project – a qualification that forms part of the generic learning for all Diplomas – and this will be available to schools, colleges and other providers.  The Project can be offered as part of the Diploma or as a standalone qualification by all centres, including those which have not yet gone through the Gateway process.

EDI will be launching ‘The Project’ Qualification at all three levels from September 2008. The project qualification is an entirely new qualification at levels 1, 2 and 3. It can be taken by learners either as a standalone qualification or as part of the 14-19 Diploma.
The Project enables learners to extend their current course of study or increase their knowledge about an area of interest. There is an emphasis on developing skills in independent study and research, with the potential to increase attainment on other areas. The opportunity to undertake research in an area of choice will appeal to learner’s at all three levels. Prior to this launch date EDI will be offering a series of free briefing events to provide centres with further information about EDI and The Project, included in the briefing will be:

• Introduction to EDI
• The Projects role inside and outside of the diploma
• Strategies for delivering The Project in centres
• Overview of assessment requirements
• Administrative procedures

The Project briefing will be suitable for centres offering The Project from September 2008 or are
considering doing so in the future We would like to invite you or a colleague to attend one of these events.

The arranged dates and venues are:

Midlands – 16th May Coventry. Holiday Inn South, Ryton on Dunsmore Click here for the booking form
South – 21st May London, Victoria & Albert Museum, Cromwell Road Click here for the booking form
North – 3rd June – Manchester, Days Inn, University of Manchester Click here for the booking form

The event will run from 10am to 1pm and will include refreshments and lunch. Please complete the accompanying booking form and return to me at the above address as soon as possible. Please note places are limited so book now to avoid disappointment.

For more Information about EDI's Project click here.