Three new Diploma lines of learning from OCR have been accredited by the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA).

The principal learning elements of the following diplomas will be taught from September 2009.

• Business, Administration and Finance
• Hospitality
• Manufacturing and Product Design

OCR is also accredited for Functional Skills and the Project/Extended Project, and acts as a Diploma Awarding Body (DAB) - which means we meet the requirements for awarding the full Diploma qualifications.

The qualifications all provide an excellent introduction to the knowledge and practical skills needed by candidates looking to progress into employment, including apprenticeship programmes or higher education.

Highlights of the specifications include the opportunity for Business Administration and Finance students who see themselves as entrepreneurs of the future to present Dragons’ Den style presentations. Alternatively Manufacturing and Product Design students could find themselves estimating the quantities of materials needed for the production of concrete garden furniture, or using a nutritional database to work out what needs to go on a food product label.

Diplomas have been developed in partnership with industries, colleges and universities with the aim of giving young people the skills, knowledge and understanding that employers need in the modern workplace.

Notes to Editors:

Business, Administration and Finance, and Hospitality have been accredited for levels 1, 2 and 3. Manufacturing and Product Design has been accredited for level 1 and 2. accreditation for Level 3 is currently being progressed and further details will be available shortly.

Diplomas are new qualifications at Levels 1, 2 and 3, which will offer an alternative path for students aged 14 to 19.