The Diploma in Retail Business is very different from qualifications previously offered by schools and colleges. Students who choose it will learn in a practical, creative way that blends academic study with real-life learning and hands-on experience in the workplace, under the guidance of retail professionals.

It is an interesting and exciting opportunity to develop a broad understanding of the business of retail without committing to a specific career. It can either lead to a job or university.

From 2010 this new style of learning will give you the opportunity to study the Diploma in Retail Business alongside some GCSEs and A levels. Please click the what you will learn document in the downloads section to the right.

Since this is a new qualification it will not be taught in every school straight away but it will be available throughout England from 2013. Information on schools and colleges taking part will be provided here soon.

The Diploma is being backed by UK grime star, Kano. Find out more about what he is doing to support it here, or click below for a video on the Diploma in Retail Business.