Survey results released today suggest a clear majority of education workers want to see more training and time to prepare for 14-19 Diplomas.

The survey was run by Teacher Support Network in partnership with sister charity, College and University Support Network. It was the first full sector survey on the new 14-19 Diplomas, seeking the opinions of all those directly affected by the new qualification in schools, colleges and higher education institutions.

More than two-thirds of respondents said that delivery of 14-19 Diplomas, which were introduced last year with five more expected in September, would be improved if staff had more time to prepare for their introduction.

Around seven out of ten felt consortia should be given time to meet and share best practice.

The same proportion felt they saw a need for training which provided knowledge tailored to the new qualification as well as training to develop functional skills, such as working collaboratively with others.

Teacher Support Network Group Chief Executive, Patrick Nash, said: “The success of 14-19 Diplomas will ultimately be determined by good delivery on the ground. “We know from helping thousands of educational professionals every year that change in schools and further education can come at a bewildering pace. The steady stream of new initiatives can cause tremendous stress and anxiety amongst those charged with delivering education and sometimes have a counterproductive effect on standards.

“I hope that this valuable feedback from the sector is taken on board, so teachers and other educational professionals are given enough time and the right training to ensure this qualification becomes more popular.”