In a recent report by Ofsted into the teaching of the 14-19 Diploma, inspectors found that work was "no better than satisfactory" in construction and the built environment courses.

It also highlighted that the choice of Diploma was frequently along "traditional gender lines", with very low female students in construction and the built environment courses.

Laura Clarke, Chartered Institute Of Building (CIOB) Education Manager, commented: "Whilst these Diplomas are still in their early days we are disappointed that construction and built environment courses are only being filled by 3% of female students. We certainly support the recommendations by Ofsted to focus on improving the career guidance for students to avoid the gender-stereotypical choices that are being made.

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"It is well reported by the Equal Opportunities Commission that the UK's construction and engineering sectors are significantly below the national average in terms of employing women within their workforce. These 14-19 Diploma's can aid the industry in breaking down those stereotypes and allow us to create greater diversity. We must seize this opportunity and capture the imagination of young people who are seeking an exciting career in the built environment with stimulating and well structured teaching. To do that, we have too make sure the standard of those teaching, and of those outside collaborators, is of a sufficient standard."

(CD/KMcA)