Exam chief: Risky diplomas problematic

Edexcel examination board head Jerry Jarvis has expressed his doubts about the new diploma qualification to be introduced later this year.

Mr Jarvis said a lack of teacher training or decisions about the practical elements of diplomas to be offered from September pose a "huge educational risk" to Britain.

"We think it's going to be quite traumatic to get through this. The issue is about schools being able to cope," he told the Guardian newspaper.

"If the diploma doesn't earn its spurs as a qualification, and that means respect from employers, pupils, parents and higher education, we face a serious problem."