Ministers also announced today that development of new Diplomas in science, humanities and languages, which were due to be introduced from September 2011, will stop immediately.

Ministers said that it was not the role of Government to force the development of new Diplomas in humanities, sciences and languages. Stopping 'phase four' - or 'academic' - Diplomas will help refocus efforts on tried and tested qualifications in these subject areas. Today's announcement on new Diplomas does not affect students who are currently studying or applying for the first 14 Diplomas.