This qualification covers a wide range of key subject areas in health and social care. The Extended Diploma includes a range of optional units, allowing learners to pursue an interest in the specific areas of social care, health studies and health sciences, while still allowing enough diversity for the optional units to be tailored to suit a learner’s preferred progression path. Placement experience is mandatory for this qualification to underpin the theoretical application of, knowledge and understanding in real-life contexts. Learners will be required to attend placement blocks in a real work environment to support their learning.