The Diploma is a new 14-19 qualification which enables learners to gain knowledge, understanding and experience of work sectors that they are interested in, while putting new skills into practice. The qualification combines theoretical with practical learning.

The Diploma offers a mix of classroom learning and hands on experience, including:
• Principal learning: developing the relevant knowledge and understanding the theory behind the practice for your chosen subject area
• Generic learning: developing essential and functional English, maths and ICT skills, alongside development of personal learning and thinking skills valued by universities and employers
• Additional and specialist learning: your individual choice of qualifications to study as part of the Diploma, either directly related to the chosen area, or maybe essential for a university course. This could be a particular GCSE, BTEC or A Level
• Work experience: a minimum of 10 days work experience in your chosen area to help develop your skills. You will also complete a project to put your learning into practice

What levels are there?

You can study a Diploma at three levels: Foundation, Higher and Advanced.
The Foundation Diploma is equivalent to 5 GCSEs at grades D to G
The Higher Diploma is equivalent to 7 GCSEs at grades A* to C
The Advanced Diploma is equivalent to 3 and a half A levels.

Designed to prepare you for wherever you want to go in life, the Diploma equips you with the skills and knowledge you need to go on to university, or to start a career or an Apprenticeship in your chosen area.

From September 2010 Northumberland College is offering five Diploma subjects in partnership with other members in our consortiums including high schools and employers in the Northumberland area:

The Level 2 Higher Diploma in:
• Construction and the Built Environment
• Environmental and Land Based
• Hair and Beauty Studies
• Society, Health and Development
• Travel and Tourism*

*Available in Berwick only

More details about each diploma subject:

• Construction and the Built Environment
• Environmental and Land Based Diploma
• Hair and Beauty Studies
• Society, Health and Development
• Travel and Tourism

For more information on the new Diplomas visit the government website

Weather forces college closures

Northumberland College was forced to close its centres this morning (Thursday) due to the ongoing snow.

All students are advised that there will be no lessons this afternoon or evening at any centres. The college expects to open as normal again tomorrow (Friday).

The college phone system is currently down, so we are unable to take any calls.

Engineers are working hard to fix the problem and hope to have the system back up and running soon. In the meantime, you can email advice.centre@northland.ac.uk or use the Live support service via the button on this home page to access our contact centre staff.

Apologies for any inconvenience.