London, Sept 2 : Ofqual, the new regulator of qualifications, exams and tests in England has outlined the structure of five new diplomas to be introduced in 2009.

The five diplomas include business, administration and finance; environmental and land-based studies; hair and beauty studies; hospitality; and manufacturing and product design.

According to the new guidelines released by the regulator, in the first level of hair and beauty studies, taken instead of or alongside GCSEs, teenagers will be taught a “range of basic techniques to straighten, smooth, curl and finger-dry hair”, reports Times Online.

“This unit will allow you to explore hairstyles throughout history, as well as the influences that have driven hair fashions and methods through the years,” said the regulator.

The new syllabus proposes that students should learn to cultivate their own appearance to fit in with the industry.

It says: “Our society is increasingly image-conscious and the hair and beauty sector relies greatly on maintaining a style and image that will increase efficiency and effectiveness, as well as job satisfaction.”

The students will also taught about how substance abuse, personal hygiene and wellbeing can affect “appearance, health and ability to perform effectively at work”.

The new curriculum will also help students to realize how knowledge and understanding of image and style, “will help you to recognise the importance of a professional image”.

The teenagers opting for hospitality diploma will be taught how to work in pubs, restaurants, hotels and nightclubs

This also includes lessons on dealing with difficult customers and “meet and greet customers in a responsible way, and deal with competing customer requirements”.

Ofqual said: “Today’s customers expect high standards every time they buy or use a hospitality product or service. There has been a large growth in the number of people eating out, and taking short breaks. The customer expects not only good food and a range of choice, but also a high-quality eating experience and a well-presented, clean bedroom with a fully working bath or shower room. You will have the opportunity to develop behavioural skills to help you in the workplace.”

The environmental and land-based diploma will make students aware of the threat posed by climate change and growing awareness of green issues.

The pupils will be made to review the range of renewable energy supplies and their effect on the environment and society, advantages and disadvantages of biofuel production, while another course addresses how human activity affects the environment. (ANI)