According to the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, the diploma would offer learners the chance to develop "scientific skills" and allow pupils to specialise in complementary and alternative medicine.
But the charity Sense About Science challenged the plan this week, arguing that alternative medicine is not science. "We'd be really disappointed if the promotion of this new diploma denigrates evidence-based medicine," said a spokesman. "We promote good science and evidence for the public. A key part of this is giving schoolchildren a solid understanding of how science works."
Pupils taking the diploma will also learn how wellbeing can affect a person's appearance and cover topics such as nutrition, stress and substance abuse.
Register Now to Continue Reading
Thank you for visiting Children & Young People Now and making use of our archive of more than 60,000 expert features, topics hubs, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's Included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Email newsletter providing advice and guidance across the sector
Already have an account? Sign in here
