£90m of Government funding is to go to schools, colleges and training providers to help deliver the new Diplomas. Each successful consortium of schools and colleges will receive £30,000 for each type of Diploma they offer and to help them train and recruit staff.

Diplomas in construction and the built environment; as well as engineering will be offered for pupils interested in taking up a career in the Construction industry.

The new Diploma will be available to over 40,000 students aged 14-19 and will allow students to progress to further study, university or work. Students will be able to choose Diplomas alongside GCSEs or A-levels or in place of them.

Those who choose to study for a Diploma will have a wider choice to study what they want and where they want and will be better prepared for further study or work. They will have the opportunity to combine essential skills and knowledge together with hands on experience and work experience with employers.

The courses are expected to start from September next year.