The C&BE Diploma has three components:

• principal learning
• generic learning
• additional and specialist learning

 Principal learning is:

• sector-related learning
• mandatory

Principal learning focuses in particular on developing and applying the knowledge and skills that are relevant to the line of learning. At each level a minimum of 50 per cent must be concerned with the application of knowledge and skills through tasks, problems and situations that are related to work in that sector.

Within generic learning, students develop and apply the broad skills and knowledge necessary for learning, employment and personal development. Generic learning includes:

• functional skills in English, mathematics and information and communication technology (ICT)
• personal, learning and thinking skills
• work experience
• a project offering the chance to show potential, and breadth and independence of learning.

Generic skills have a wide application and can be developed in a variety of contexts, including through and across principal learning.

Additional and specialist learning:

• supports choice and progression within a coherent whole programme
• enables the learner to specialise and/or take up relevant complementary learning
• consists of qualifications chosen by the learner from the Diploma catalogue
• provides opportunities to meet particular needs
• may include some national curriculum key stage 4 entitlement areas at levels 1 and 2
• may include qualifications from a higher level or modules from higher education.

For specialist learning within the C&BE Diploma the following are examples of qualifications that can be combined to allow learners to explore the sector in ways relevant to them. Learners can take the whole qualification, or units within the qualification. Where possible, options will be grouped together to create pathways.

• Level 1 BTEC Extended Certificate in Construction and the Built Environment
• Level 2 BTEC Extended Certificate in Construction and the Built Environment (Technician)
• Level 3 BTEC Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment

Detailed information on the structure of the Diploma is available on the  Diploma webpages of the QCDA website .