Speaking at an Edge fringe debate at the Conservative party conference, Shadow Minister for Skills, John Hayes MP, said, "Vocational learning is critical in all walks of life and Diplomas present an opportunity to develop a vocational qualification with integrity. However, we must not allow them to become a bastardised hybrid, but a quality route to success for many young people."

Nick Gibb MP, Shadow Minster for Schools, also spoke at the debate, adding, "We want Diplomas to work and we want to ensure that they will deliver high quality courses, curriculum and assessment. We would abolish academic diplomas such as those in humanities and languages as we have GCSEs and A-levels in these subjects."

Andy Powell, CEO of Edge, told the conference, "We need an education system that enables young people to achieve their potential in whatever way suits them best. There are many paths to success and reaching a 'gold standard' shouldn't just refer to young people on an 'academic' route.

We want every young person to be given the opportunities to set their own 'gold standard' with the development of pathways that blend academic theory with practical experiences, designed to match a young person's interests and ability. A world class education system would give every young person the chance to achieve in their chosen field. It will inspire them to see a future with real career options and result in skilled, motivated and work-ready young people who are prepared to drive forward the UK economy.

In previous opinion polling, 77 per cent of parents wanted to see an expansion of work-based learning in the curriculum. Following the debate, Edge will conduct an annual opinion poll to find out which political party is most trusted to improve education. In a similar survey last year, 30 per cent of respondents chose Labour, 27 per cent Conservatives and 11 per cent Liberal Democrats.