Preparing to Work HSC

NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care

Build your professional foundation in adult social care with this comprehensive qualification that develops essential knowledge and practical skills for working effectively in care settings. This flexible programme combines core care principles with specialist options, allowing you to tailor your learning to specific interests and career goals whilst mastering person-centred approaches and professional practice.

Delivered through practical portfolio development and workplace assessment, you'll develop expertise in communication, safeguarding, health and safety, and person-centred care whilst building specialist knowledge in areas such as dementia care, mental health support, or leadership skills. Our structured approach ensures you develop both theoretical understanding and practical competencies valued across all adult care settings.

Mode of Study: Flexible Learning - Part Time / Online / Blended

Indicative Study Hours: 12-15 hours per week

Duration: 24 -32 weeks (6-8 months) - This is an indicative duration, you will be able to complete early if you invest more study hours

Course Fee: £1299

Guided Learning Hours: 437 hours

Entry requirements:

Age: Minimum 16 years
Work Experience: Working, volunteering, or on practical placement in care settings
Qualifications: No specific prior qualifications required, though a Level 2 qualification is recommended
Language Skills: Good written and spoken English (Level 2 literacy recommended)
Basic Skills: Computer literacy and internet access for portfolio development
Professional Requirements: An Enhanced DBS check may be required by employers
Commitment: Dedication to supporting vulnerable adults and professional development

Ideal for:

Care assistants seeking formal qualification recognition
New entrants to the adult care sector require comprehensive training
Support workers wanting to advance their professional credentials
Healthcare assistants expanding into social care settings
Volunteers professionalising their care skills and knowledge
Career changers entering the growing adult care sector
Care workers preparing for leadership and supervisory roles
Apprentices on the Lead Adult Care Worker apprenticeship standard

Portfolio of Evidence: Comprehensive workplace evidence demonstrating knowledge and competency
Observation Records: Direct observation of care practice and professional skills
Case Study Analysis: Real-world scenarios applying care principles and person-centred approaches
Reflective Accounts: Personal and professional development through reflective practice
Witness Testimonies: Workplace supervisor confirmation of competent practice
Professional Discussions: Structured conversations demonstrating understanding and application
Work Products: Care plans, risk assessments, and communication records

Course Details

Learning Aims

By completion, you will be able to:

Communicate effectively with service users, families, and colleagues using person-centred approaches
Promote person-centred practice that respects choice, dignity, and independence
Implement safeguarding procedures to protect vulnerable adults from harm and abuse
Apply health and safety principles, creating safe environments for service users and staff
Handle information appropriatel,y maintaining confidentiality and meeting legal requirements
Promote equality and inclusio,n challenging discrimination and supporting diverse needs
Support individual wellbeing through holistic care approaches and outcome-focused practice
Work professionall,y demonstrating duty of care and ethical practice frameworks
Develop continuously through reflective practice and professional learning
Understand mental capacity and support decision-making in care contexts

Unit Structure

Mandatory Core Units

Promote Communication in Care Settings - Effective communication methods and relationship building
Handling Information in Adult Care - Data protection, record keeping, and information sharing
Promote Own Continuous Personal and Professional Development - Reflective practice and career planning.
Person-Centred Practice, Choice and Independence - Individual-focused care and empowerment approaches
Understand How to Promote Personal Wellbeing - Holistic wellbeing and outcome-focused support
Promote Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Human Rights - Inclusive practice and rights-based approaches
Promote Health and Safety in Care Settings - Risk management and safe working practices.
Support the Health and Well-being of Individuals - Health promotion and wellbeing maintenance
Scope and Responsibilities of an Adult Care Worker - Professional boundaries and role understanding
Understand Duty of Care - Professional responsibilities and ethical frameworks
Understand How to Safeguard Individuals - Protection procedures and abuse recognition
Understand Mental Capacity and Restrictive Practices - Legal frameworks and decision-making support
Infection Prevention and Control - Health protection and infection control procedures

Optional Specialist Units (choose minimum 19 credits) - Please consult with our assessor and make a decision on the optional units depending on your specialisation or intended specialisation pathway.

Resources Required

Computer/tablet with a reliable internet connection for online learning platform access
Microsoft Office Suite (Word) or Google Docs for portfolio development and assignments
PDF Reader (Adobe Acrobat or equivalent) for course materials and qualification guides
Cloud Storage Account (OneDrive, Google Drive) for portfolio organisation and submission
Access to care workplace for practical evidence gathering and competency demonstration
Smartphone/camera for capturing appropriate evidence (following confidentiality guidelines)
Professional reference materials, including care standards, policies, and procedure manuals
Quiet study space for focused learning and reflective practice activities