Soldato
I don't buy the idea that a diploma vs A level will result in more likelihood acceptance to a degree apprenticeship. I done Scottish Highers (A level equivalent - well easier but we do more of them), was accepted into university to do computer science with them, actually dropped out and joined a degree apprenticeship programme - nobody on that programme had a diploma, they all had regular qualifications, or some of them actually had a HND on top of their qualifications. I'd advise you do A levels, don't tie yourself to a specific subject in the form of a diploma at this stage, particularly if you are a capable student expecting A results.