FHEQ Level 5 qualification

level 4 - Certificate
level 5 - Diploma

http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20121002234537/http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/QualificationsExplained/DG_10039017

But it is different from Level 6, so it is not a proper degree then? How can you get a diploma without being awarded a degree?

Diploma is just another word used to describe a qualification, it doesn't correlate with specific levels. you can get level 2 diplomas, its just the name they use. A degree is a minimum 3 year course, it is titled something like "BA" "BSc" "LLB" etc. your first year at uni is level 4, this is a HNC, your second year is level 5, this is a HND, your final year is level 6, this is a degree