The Diploma in Public Services

There are many ways in which HEIs can help to make a difference to both the perception of the Diploma by young people and to prepare themselves for future undergraduate intake of former Diploma students.

Publication of entry requirements

It is important that HEIs provide advice which spells out the precise entry requirements for those courses where the Diploma in Public Services is accepted. Many students will have an idea as to what undergraduate course they wish to do before starting their Diploma and it is vital that HEIs allow young people the opportunity at the earliest possible stage to start planning the next stage of their education. To do this HEIs must publish entry requirements which not only include the Diploma in Public Services but which also stipulates what particular ASL subjects need to be taken in order for an application to a course to be considered. Those HEI admissions tutors that stipulate only UCAS points for course entry may wish to look at the structure of the Diploma to ensure that this approach fits their course requirements.

Make statements of support

Any statements of support are useful to the perception of the Diploma. This will help to increase confidence in the new qualification amongst young people and parents which is vital in these early stages to drive demand for the Diploma.  The UCAS website is a good place to publicise support but don't forget that your own HEI website and publicity material needs to endorse and encourage applications from Diploma students.

Champion the Diploma in Public Services in your own region

For those students who may look closer to home for their HE needs an endorsement of the Diploma by their local HEI may well attract candidates who might not otherwise consider Higher Education. More broadly, a positive message by all HEIs regarding the Diploma in Public Services will serve to strengthen the perception of the qualification as a route to Higher Education as well as employment.

Recognise the value of the extended project for course entry

The extended project is a useful tool for HEIs to assess the ability of candidates to work on their own within a sizable project. Since the nature of study in Higher Education requires candidates to work individually, researching, analysing and presenting evidence it is obviously advantageous for admissions tutors to gain an early indication of those same personal study skills of potential candidates through the Diploma extended project.

Enhancement Modules

Certain courses may benefit from transitional enhancement modules for Diploma in Public Services students.

Join your local consortia

By joining a local consortia for the Diploma in Public Services you will open the door to potential HEI candidates. You may open up your facilities to students doing the Extended Project or provide taster days to give students an idea of what undergraduate life at an HEI is really like. This can also have benefits for the local community, improve the perception of your HEI and potentially attract more young people into HE.