Level 3 NCFE CACHE Technical Occupational Entry in Social Care

This qualification is designed to provide learners with the knowledge, understanding and skills required to develop competence as a social care worker in a range of social care support settings. Start your career in social care with our NCFE CACHE Technical Occupational Entry in Social Care qualification.

This hands-on course is the perfect first step if you’re passionate about helping others and want to make a real difference. You’ll learn the essential knowledge, understanding, and practical skills needed to work in a variety of social care settings, supporting individuals and communities.

Through a mix of classroom learning and real-world experience, you’ll build your confidence and develop the key skills employers look for in future care professionals. The course is designed around the recognised Lead Adult Care Worker occupational standard, so you’ll be gaining the same core knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) expected in the industry.

Whether you want to progress into a caring role, an apprenticeship, or further study in health and social care, this qualification gives you the foundation to begin your career journey.

As part of your course, you’ll complete at least 30 hours of hands-on work experience in a real social care setting. This practical placement helps you put what you learn in the classroom into action, gain confidence, and develop the skills employers are looking for.

During this course, you will learn:

• Working in social care
• The care and support planning process
• Values and behaviours
• Mental health and wellbeing
• Learning disabilities
• Dementia awareness
• Health and safety
• Prevention and control of infection
• Personal and professional development

This qualification is perfect if you’re ready to progress to higher-level study or start a career in social care, health, or support work. It’s also a great choice if you’re interested in areas such as healthcare, mental health, nursing, or community support.

Entry requirements: You’ll need 4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths.

If you achieved a grade 3 in either English or maths, you can study one of them alongside this qualification (there’s time in the timetable for only one GCSE).

For progressing learners: You must have achieved a Level 2 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care at grade C or above.

You’ll also need a recommendation and reference from your academic coordinator, a strong attendance record, and evidence of work experience.

There’s time allocated on the timetable to study one GCSE (either English or maths) at grade 3 — the other must already be at grade 4.

Before applying to university, it’s a good idea to check the specific GCSE entry requirements for your chosen course.

This course will help you gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to move into higher education or enter a career where you can make a real difference.

Whether you want to progress into a caring role, an apprenticeship, or further study in health and social care, this qualification gives you the foundation to begin your career journey.