The introduction of diplomas as an alternative to A-levels will help give students a broader range of skills, according to a government advisor.

Sir Mike Tomlinson,  the government’s ambassador for the new qualifications told The Daily Telegraph the qualification would go a long way to addressing the problem of students being taught how to pass exams, rather than developing knowledge.

“It will go a long way to tackling that issue. It will also provide students with an opportunity, through extended project, to pursue a topic that really interests them,” said Tomlinson.

The new diplomas, which launch next year, combine academic study with work-based training. Initially covering media, health and engineering, the  scheme will then be expanded to cover more traditional subjects, such as humanities, science and language.