Safeguarding

Key Facts

NCFE CACHE Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care

NCFE CACHE Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care

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The NCFE CACHE Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care is an introductory qualification designed for individuals who are new to the adult social care sector or looking to begin a career in care. The programme develops essential knowledge and understanding of the principles, values and practices required when working in adult social care settings.

This qualification provides learners with a strong foundation in key areas such as communication, safeguarding, health and safety, equality and diversity, person-centred care and professional development. It is ideal for those considering employment within the care sector or progressing to further study in health and social care.

  • Entry Requirements


    • 4 x GCSEs at grade 4 - 9, including English or a Level 2 Certificate or above in a relevant subject
    • A DBS check

    Students should have an interest in working with people, good communication skills, and a commitment to developing an understanding of health and wellbeing.

  • Course Content


    Learners will complete the following mandatory units:

    • Principles of Communication in Adult Social Care Settings
    • Principles of Personal Development in Adult Social Care Settings
    • Principles of Diversity, Equality and Inclusion in Adult Social Care Settings
    • Principles of Safeguarding and Protection in Health and Social Care
    • Principles for Implementing Duty of Care
    • Understand the Role of the Social Care Worker
    • Understand Person-Centred Approaches in Adult Social Care Settings
    • Understand Health and Safety in Social Care Settings
    • Understand How to Handle Information in Social Care Settings

  • Progression Next Steps


    Successful completion of this qualification can support progression to:

    Further Learning:

    • Adult Care Apprenticeships
    • Other Level 3 and Level 4 Health and Social Care qualifications
    • Specialist qualifications within health and social care

    Employment Opportunities:

    This qualification provides valuable underpinning knowledge for entry-level roles within the care sector, including:

    • Care Support Worker
    • Care Assistant
    • Support Worker
    • Community Care Assistant
    • Residential Care Worker

  • Additional Information


    This is a knowledge-only qualification and does not require learners to be employed in a care setting to enrol or achieve the qualification.

    The programme is particularly suitable for:

    • Individuals exploring a career in adult social care
    • Learners seeking progression into the care sector
    • Learners preparing for apprenticeships or higher-level care qualifications

  • Course Structure


    The qualification consists of nine mandatory units that provide learners with the underpinning knowledge required for adult social care practice. The qualification runs over one academic year.

    Learners must successfully complete all mandatory units to achieve the qualification.

  • Assessment Details


    Assessment is completed through a portfolio of evidence produced by the learner.

    Methods of assessment may include:

    • Written assignments
    • Knowledge-based tasks
    • Professional discussions
    • Question and answer activities
    • Reflective accounts
    • Learner evidence portfolios

    All assessment is internally assessed and quality assured in accordance with NCFE CACHE requirements.

  • Teaching and Learning


    A range of teaching and learning methods are used to support learner achievement, including:

    • Tutor-led classroom sessions
    • Interactive discussions and workshops
    • Case study analysis
    • Independent research activities
    • Group work and collaborative learning
    • Scenario-based learning
    • Reflective practice exercises
    • One-to-one tutorials and academic support

    Teaching focuses on developing both theoretical understanding and professional awareness, helping learners prepare for future employment or further study within the adult social care sector.