Martin Johnson, acting deputy general secretary of the Association of Teachers and Lecturers (ATL), said:

“The Government was wise to introduce its diploma programme gradually, with only schools and colleges that have a track record of offering similar courses starting diplomas this year.

“Unfortunately for school and college staff it's the same old story of new courses being introduced after very patchy training.  We will continue to press the Government to make improvements with this.

“While diplomas have the potential to provide a much better curriculum than we have now, ATL is worried about them running alongside traditional qualifications.  And it looks like students are also concerned at the moment, as we hear rumours of a very low take-up in the first year.

“Diplomas are not a disaster area, but the Government knows that getting this programme right remains a huge challenge.”

ends