University doubts over Diplomas
Posted on | January 26, 2009 |
Many teachers do not think the new school Diplomas are a suitable qualification for students going on to university, a survey suggests.
Only 30% of secondary teachers thought Diplomas were useful for university.
The Sutton Trust, which commissioned the survey, says a qualifications divide could open up between better and less well-off students.
The government says Diplomas have the backing of universities, colleges and employers.
The new qualifications have been proposed as an alternative to A-levels - but this survey suggests that they are still being perceived in schools as a route more likely to be taken by less academic pupils.
It also raises concerns of a social divide between a growing range of qualifications.
A large majority of teachers - 83% - thought Diplomas were suitable for children pursuing a vocational route.
Only three in 10 teachers questioned said they thought the qualifications were suitable for independent schools.
By contrast, 74% thought they were suitable for schools in poorer areas.
The Sutton Trust is concerned Diplomas could close opportunities for some less privileged pupils.
It commissioned the survey of 1,300 teachers, including some primary teachers.
‘Confused’
The director of policy at the Sutton Trust, James Turner, said the perception of teachers was “worrying at a time when Diplomas were being heavily promoted to children and teachers”.
“This reflects a wider confusion amongst students, teachers and parents about the role and currency of the different qualifications available in schools and colleges.
“In an increasingly complex environment, young people need clear messages about where choices at age 14 and 16 are likely to lead them.”
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 Diplomas provide a new route to higher education, and enable wider accessibility  Diana Warwick, Universities UK
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The survey also reflected opinion on the international baccalaureate and the Cambridge Pre-U qualification.
Both were deemed suitable for the academically-able by a majority of teachers - with the IB faring particularly well.
Divide
Universities UK said pupils needed more guidance on the qualifications available.
Chief Executive Diana Warwick said: “Diplomas provide a new route to higher education, and enable wider accessibility for students to develop the skills that best meet their aspirations.”
The first wave of Diplomas were introduced in 2008 and taken by about 12,000 students - and there are plans for so-called “academic Diplomas”.
Mr Turner said he was worried about an increasing divide opening up between students from independent schools and top state schools destined for an academic path, and children from less privileged backgrounds.
He said he feared some would find opportunities closed to them early on in their lives.
Schools Minister Jim Knight said: “Diplomas have the backing of universities, colleges and employers and have been designed with their input to ensure they are high quality, valued qualifications.
“The vast majority of higher education providers have now said they accept the Advanced Diploma as a route onto their undergraduate courses.”
This article was found on the BBC Website
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