It hopes the new structure will mean the Diploma gains recognition from the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority (QCA), giving students access to government funding. The course has been increased from 84 hours to 120 at no extra cost.

The IoPs head of education, training and development, Gordon Stewart, said the course could now go into greater depth.

It has also been reorganised so people can do just one of the five units to gain a certificate of achievement. This can then be upgraded at a later date.

An online version will also be launched in October and a paper-based study option is available.

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