Diplomas pose basic skills hurdle

New science qualifications are just being introduced

The Diplomas that are central to government plans for 14-19 learning are said to be at risk because teenagers cannot manage the basic skills.

The QCA qualifications watchdog foresaw "a significant impact on pass rates".

The required "functional" skills in literacy, numeracy and computing may put them off taking the new courses, a mix of theory and practical learning.

It has also emerged that the government has shelved plans to develop a Diploma in applied science.

The exchange of opinions on functional skills is revealed in letters released under the QCA's publication schedule.

Minister's concerns

QCA chief executive Ken Boston wrote: "The functional skills requirement is likely to have a significant impact on pass rates for the diploma and there may be a consequent negative impact on uptake."

But he believed that basic literacy and numeracy were "the right foundation for young people's future success".

The requirement was written into the remit for the Diplomas in response to employers' complaints about the lack of literacy and numeracy among school-leavers, even those with apparently good qualifications.

In reply, the then Skills Minister, Phil Hope, said: "Like you, I have concerns about the impact of the functional skills requirement on the uptake of the diploma.

"We are considering this further and will write to you about this shortly."

Science diploma

Former Education Secretary Alan Johnson - who famously said the Diplomas could go "horribly wrong" if seen as second best to GCSEs and A-levels - shelved the idea of a Diploma in applied science, it transpires.

"Although, as you point out in your advice, there are views both for and against the Diploma, the issues are finely balanced."

He had taken further soundings with ministerial colleagues "with an interest in the science skills we foster in our young people".

But he had concluded that they would not wish to proceed at this stage.

The issue highlights some of the conundrums in the creation of two new education departments by Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

One department includes schools, the other takes in further education, science and skills.

The Diplomas, due to be introduced in schools and colleges from next year, overlap both.

A spokesperson for the Department for Children, Schools and Families promised that Diplomas would not be seen as "second-class courses".

"Functional skills in English, maths and ICT will, in the future, become a requirement for all students whether they study Diplomas or GCSEs.

"Diplomas will be rigorous and challenging courses that must have the confidence of employers and universities," said the spokesperson.

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