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Course Type
Certificates and Diplomas
Our Diplomas and Certificates are practical, career-focused qualifications that help you gain the knowledge and hands-on experience employers look for. They’re ideal if you prefer learning by doing, want to specialise in a subject you enjoy, or are ready to take your first step toward work or higher study.
Levels Explained
Diplomas and Certificates are available from Level 1 to Level 3, so you can start at the level that suits your experience and ambitions.
- Level 1 – a foundation level designed to build confidence and introduce key skills in your chosen subject
- Level 2 – equivalent to GCSEs, offering more technical and practical knowledge for your next step
- Level 3 – equivalent to advanced study and focused on preparing you for university, higher apprenticeships, or skilled employment
Typical Course Duration
Most full-time Diplomas and Certificates take one to two years to complete, depending on the level and subject area:
- Level 1 and 2 courses usually last one year
- Level 3 courses often take two years to provide the depth and experience needed for higher-level progression
What Makes Them Different?
Diplomas and Certificates are designed around practical, applied learning — helping you gain real experience alongside your studies. You’ll develop skills through projects, coursework, and placements that reflect real-world challenges.
Certificates & Diplomas: Comparison to Other Course Types
| Qualification | How it’s Assessed | Work Placement / Industry Element | Level / Equivalence | Pathways & Outcomes |
| A Levels | Primarily exams (some coursework) | None | Academic, typically Level 3 | Often suited to academic university entry or specialist fields |
| T Levels | Class theory + practical work | Mandatory industry placement (~20%) | Equivalent to 3 A Levels, with UCAS tariff | Combines work skills with academic recognition |
| Diplomas | Coursework, assignments, projects | Optional or built into some units | Level 1 to 3; Level 3 = 3 A Levels in UCAS | Leads to technical & academic routes; widely accepted by universities |
| Apprenticeships | On the job training + assessments | Fully work-based | Range of levels (2–5) | Earn and learn; recognised qualification plus experience |
Where can a Diploma take you?
Completing a Diploma or Certificate can open several progression routes, depending on your level and goals:
- Move up to a higher-level qualification within your subject area
- Begin a higher or degree apprenticeship
- Progress to university-level study with a Level 3 qualification
- Enter skilled employment with the confidence and experience gained through practical learning
Explore Our Certificate and Diploma Courses
Stamford College offers a wide range of Certificate and Diploma courses tailored to helping you build practical skills and knowledge to prepare for your future career.
Alex Frost, who studied a Level 3 Diploma in Professional Cookery at Peterborough College, has now gone on to be a Commis Chef with the Royal Automobile Club! “My course left me fully equipped and ready to start working in the real world. The best thing about my course was the staff and I really appreciate how much they helped me. I really enjoyed my course and I recommend it to anyone looking to work in the catering industry!”
Alex Frost
Level 3 Diploma in Professional Cookery