The new Diplomas are at the heart of the Government’s drive to reform 14-19 education. By mixing practical and theoretical learning they bridge the academic/vocational divide and represent the most significant change to UK education since the introduction of GCSEs. This national, one day conference was an opportunity for policy and decision makers involved with Diplomas to get to grips with the latest developments and examine the key challenges to making the Diplomas a success. With delegates from schools, colleges, training providers, Higher Education, Local Authorities, employers and Learning and Skills Councils in attendance, the conference was about shaping the direction of the Diploma debate. Hear keynote speaker, Jon Coles, Director of the 14-19 Reform Group at the Department for Children, Schools and Families, state that it is time to "...transform opportunities and achievements for young people in this country". The newly released Green Paper Promoting achievement, valuing success: a strategy for 14–19 qualifications was discussed by a panel of experts in session three. The paper sets out the measures needed to ensure that new, comprehensive qualification options are developed which better meet the needs of all young people while retaining and simplifying the best and most valued existing qualifications. For more information go to the Department for Children, Schools and Families website.