Level 3 BTEC Diploma in Adult Care Course. Work-based training at your workplace. You study while working as a lead adult care worker, applying your learning directly in your role. The course covers supporting individuals' independence, dignity and control, alongside leadership and guidance responsibilities. Entry requirements include qualifications or experience in health and social care at Level 2 or equivalent. A DBS check is also required. The course typically takes one year.
Who this course is for
The Pearson BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (England) is for learners employed as an apprentice in the role of a lead adult care worker. A lead adult care worker will make a positive difference to someone’s life when they are faced with physical, practical, social, emotional or intellectual challenges. They will be expected to exercise judgement and take appropriate action to support individuals to maintain their independence, dignity and control. By providing leadership, guidance and direction at the frontline of care delivery, they will be instrumental in improving the health and wellbeing of those receiving care and support. Lead adult care workers will in some circumstances have delegated responsibility for the standard of care provided and may supervise the work of other care workers. By exercising autonomy and accountability, they will lead and support others to comply with expected standards and behaviours. Lead adult care workers may work in residential or nursing homes, domiciliary care, day centres or some clinical healthcare settings.
Entry requirements
In order to register for this qualification, it is expected that learners will have qualifications and/or experience in the health and social care sector equivalent to Level 2.
Potential apprentices should however be willing to undergo a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service formerly known as CRB - Criminal Records Bureau) check. Employers in social care and in the health sector carry out DBS checks, as this is a requirement for those working in the sectors, and certain offences may disqualify potential apprentices from employment in these sectors and thus automatically preclude them from completing the framework. Potential apprentices should therefore discuss any relevant matters with their employer prior to enrolment.
What you will learn
You'll develop skills in supporting individuals to maintain their independence and dignity.
You'll learn how to exercise professional judgement in complex care situations.
You'll practise providing leadership and guidance to other care workers.
You'll understand how to respond to physical, practical, social, emotional and intellectual challenges faced by individuals.
You'll build knowledge of safeguarding, duty of care and person-centred approaches.
You'll learn how to communicate effectively with individuals, families and colleagues.
How you will learn
Assessment is work-based. You'll be observed in your workplace, demonstrating competence in your role as a lead adult care worker. You'll also complete written assignments and professional discussions. Evidence is gathered from your day-to-day practice, so your employer's support is central to completing the qualification.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Excel Training will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: support individuals with daily living tasks
Senior care worker: lead a team in a residential or community setting
Lead adult care worker: coordinate care plans and mentor colleagues
Support worker: work with adults with disabilities or mental health needs
Care team leader: supervise staff and manage shift responsibilities
What you could study next
Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care: the next step for those moving into management or specialist roles in adult social care.
Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care: suited to those taking on registered manager responsibilities.
Nursing or social work degrees: for those looking to move into regulated professional roles in health and care.
