“The government has admitted that the choices facing students at 14 and 16 are already too complicated.  However, without rationalising existing qualifications, Diplomas just muddy the waters and put more pressure on young people”.

“What’s more, top independent schools have already turned their backs on Diplomas and attempts to make Diplomas appealing to universities have angered the CBI. Universities, employers and teachers are not yet convinced that Diplomas will work”.

“Unless this changes soon, Diplomas could become ‘Betamax’ qualifications: unpopular, unsupported and unlikely to be around for long”.

Mr Bacon was speaking as the Commons public accounts committee published its report into the government’s preparations to deliver the 14-19 education reforms in England.  The report finds that Diplomas have yet to be widely accepted as credible qualifications. 

The employers’ organisation the CBI said earlier this year that government plans for Diplomas in academic subjects in England would not have any greater value to young people or to employers than the existing GCSEs or A levels, and would instead be an unnecessary distraction. 

The Independent Schools Council has said that unless all universities make the achievement of an Advanced Diploma a pre-requisite for entry to higher education, it is inconceivable that a Diploma framework will command support and respect.