DARLINGTON students will benefit from new qualifications following an announcement by schools minister Jim Knight yesterday.

Schools and colleges in the town applied to deliver diplomas in both Hospitality and Hair and Beauty and yesterday four were granted approval.

The new courses will be available from 2010 at Haughton Community School, Branksome School, Beaumont Hill School and Darlington College.

In announcing the decision, Mr Knight said: "I am extremely pleased that young people in Darlington will have the chance to study the Diploma in even more subjects.

"The qualification is an exciting new choice for young people, which will help students to gain the knowledge and skills they need to achieve success at university or in the career of their choice.

"The fact that Darlington has been successful in its application to teach additional Diplomas is testament to the fantastic work that is going on at a local level to ensure this new qualification delivers for Darlington's young people."

The Diploma is a qualification for 14-19 year olds which combines classroom learning with practical hands-on experience.

They are designed to better prepare students for work and university.

As well as learning about a specific job sector, all Diploma students continue to study English, maths and ICT.

They also develop transferable skills such as presentation and time management.

For more information, visit direct.gov.uk/diplomas