'Progression Potential: the new 14-19 Diplomas and their impact on Higher Education'

LEAD ORGANISATION

Progress South Central

PROJECT SUMMARY

During its first year of funding, Progress South Central worked with its partners to facilitate the development of clear and coherent progression routes and to raise the profile of the new Diplomas with colleagues in higher education. Our work in this first year of activity culminated in an event for higher education admissions staff and tutors in November 2008, Progression Potential: the new 14-19 Diplomas and their impact on Higher Education. This event explored the potential for Diplomas as routes into Higher Education programmes and encouraged colleagues to begin to consider the particular skills and attributes that Diploma learners will bring to HE.

In the morning, delegates heard two presentations, one from Nicola Garratt of the Specialist Schools & Academies Trust on What are the new 14-19 Diplomas?, and one from Andrea Harris of Kingston University on The impact of the new Diplomas on Higher Education. Additionally, there were three workshops on offer, on Why Functional Skills are Significant for Higher Education, The Student's Journey through the Extended Project and Progression projects for the Society, Health and Development Diploma.

Attendees included, among others, HE admissions staff, FE College practitioners and IAG practitioners (for example, Connexions PAs).

IMPACT

Approximately 50 delegates attended from across the region and beyond, and 96% rated the conference as 'excellent' or 'good'. All respondents felt that their expectations had been met to at least some extent. 57% of respondents indicated that the day had met their expectations 'to a great extent'.

The morning presentation on The impact of the new Diplomas on Higher Education and the afternoon workshop The Student's Journey through the Extended Project were highlighted as the elements of the day that delegates had found particularly useful. The chance to learn more about the Diplomas generally, and the chance to meet and network with others, were other elements of the day that were highlighted.

Selected comments included:

"Very good general explanation of 14-19 Diploma"

"Very useful information regarding the Diploma. I was previously unaware of the Diploma structure."

"Good opportunity to get HE perspective and to see what the issues are."

"Incredibly worthwhile for an insight into Diplomas and [their] relationship with HE."

"Great day for raising awareness and networking."