The Diploma Roadshow

Can you explain how Lewisham College were selected to host the Diploma Roadshow?

The Diploma Roadshow is organised by The London Borough of Lewisham and The Department for Children, Schools and Families. Lewisham College were asked to host the event, due to us running quite a few of the diplomas at the college from September 2009.

Which other organisations will Lewisham College be working in conjunction with and what roles will they play in promoting these Diplomas?

We will mainly be working in conjunction with The London Borough of Lewisham. Other schools involved in the roadshow are Christ the King and Bonus Pastor Catholic College, who will be present to promote the diplomas on offer in their establishment.



Is this the first Diploma Roadshow at Lewisham College?
This will be the first Diploma Roadshow at Lewisham College, as diplomas are a fairly new qualification. However, there was previously a Diploma Roadshow in the London Borough of Greenwich and in many other boroughs across London.

How many schools do you propose, shall be in attendance at this event?

Secondary schools from across Lewisham Borough were invited to attend the roadshow, and over 200 students are expected to attend.

As this event is aimed towards secondary schoolsm, is there a specific age group that the Diplomas are targeted at?

Diplomas are targeted at 14-19 year olds

Which Diplomas are Lewisham College showcasing?

Lewisham College began offering diplomas in September 2008. This is the Higher Diploma in IT in conjunction with Bonus Pastor Catholic College. Lewisham College will be promoting the new diplomas that will start in September 2009: Advanced Diploma in IT in conjunction with Bonus Pastor and Higher Diploma in Hospitality in conjunction with Haberdashers’ Aske’s Hatcham College.

What are the benefits for students undertaking these Diplomas and what other diplomas already exist?

Students who study for a diploma qualification benefit from a mix of theoretical and practical study and learn about the industry they have chosen. They also have the option to study other subjects alongside the diploma. Students will also study functional skills in English, maths and ICT, and will gain at least 10 days work experience.

There are diplomas in a variety of subjects including Creative and Media, Hospitality, IT, Society, Health and Development, and Engineering.

How are the Diplomas structured and what is the length of these courses?

The Diploma is available at three different levels:

Foundation – equivalent to 5 GCSEs at grades D to G
Higher – equivalent to 7 GCSEs at grades A* to C
Advanced – equivalent to 3.5 A levels

Diplomas are recognised by universities and employers and can be a route into either.

If someone wishes to find out more about these Diplomas, can you advise what the entry requirements are for applicants and how would they apply to undertake this course?

There are no entry requirements to take the Diploma qualification. Students can apply via the school where the diplomas will be carried out.