Press Release: Ministers must heed new warning from universities on diplomas
The level of involvement by universities in the development of new diplomas has been ‘less than desirable’, according to a new report by the 1994 Group of universities. The report criticises the fact that sufficient detail about the five new 14-19 qualifications, which begin in September this year, was not available until late 2007 and says ‘much further work is needed’.
Shadow Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills, David Willetts, said:
“We want the diplomas starting this year to succeed. But they cannot work if universities do not value them.
“The real value does not come from ministerial edicts but from genuine educational rigour. So universities are right to be cautious about the Government’s latest initiative.
“Ministers must try harder to ensure the diplomas are credible for universities and employers alike. Instead of dismissing this warning, ministers should act upon it.”
Notes for Editors
1. The 1994 Group of 19 universities launches the report New Foundations, Enduring Values on Wednesday, 23rd January 2008. The research was co-funded by the Government.
2. The 1994 Group’s press release says: ‘much further work is needed if the reforms are to meet the high expectations placed upon them by the Government.’ The report notes: ‘it has been impossible for higher education institutions to answer questions from schools and colleges about the acceptability of Diploma applicants.’ (p.1)
3. According to the report, under half (48%) of admissions tutors in relevant undergraduate areas were ‘very likely’ to admit diploma students. (p.47)