NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare (RQF)

Qual No: 601/4852/4

Overview

This is a Level 3 qualification (RQF) intended for people working—or preparing to work— in residential childcare settings in England. It has been designated under the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 as the required qualification for those taking up roles in children’s homes.

It aims to develop the knowledge and skills needed to support children and young people living away from home, including aspects such as development, attachment, health, and safeguarding.

Do you need to be working to take this qualification?

Learners will need to be working, volunteering or on practical placement in a residential childcare setting, as they need to show competence in both knowledge and skills.

Equivalences

The NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare (England) is regulated on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) at Level 3, which is equivalent in academic level to:

• A Level qualifications
• Level 3 BTEC Diplomas
• Access to Higher Education Diplomas

UCAS Points

This qualification carry UCAS tariff points. Applicants are advised to consult the official UCAS website for confirmation of the current points allocation and to obtain the most up-to-date information regarding university entry requirements.

Delivery Methods

The London College of Professional Studies (LCPS) offers both online learning and blended learning options. Learners can choose the mode of study that best suits their personal and professional commitments.

Learners are able to:

• Access all course materials, including online modules and written assignments.
• Receive continuous support from qualified tutors.
• Access the LCPS online learning portal 24/7, providing a user-friendly and flexible study experience.
• Obtain detailed assignment briefings and comprehensive study notes.
• Receive assignment marking and constructive feedback.
• Study fully accredited UK qualifications.
• Benefit from dedicated customer support via chat, telephone, or email (Monday to Friday).
• Receive full academic and administrative support throughout the duration of the course until completion.

Duration

Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare is available in 2 modes:

• 07 Months (Fast Track)
• 12 Months

Accreditation

Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare is accredited by Ofqual awarding body.

Course Delivery

• Online

Entry Requirements

• Learners must be 18 years and above.
• There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification, but learner must have background in residential childcare to complete this course.

Module Structure

Learners must achieve 61 credits.

53 credits must be achieved from Mandatory Group A.

Learners must also complete a minimum of 3 optional units from Optional Group B, to achieve a minimum of 8 credits.

Required Units

Optional Units

Who is it suitable for?

The NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for Residential Childcare (England) is suitable for individuals who are working, or aspire to work, with children and young people in residential care settings.

It is ideal for those who wish to:

• Develop the skills and knowledge required to provide safe, high-quality care and support to children and young people living away from home.
• Meet the qualification requirements set out in the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 for staff working in residential childcare.
• Progress in their career towards supervisory or leadership roles within children’s homes, residential care, or other social care environments.

Progression

Learners may progress to higher-level qualifications such as the:

• Level 4 Certificate in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare
• Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare
• Foundation Degree or BA (Hons) in fields such as Health and Social Care, Childcare, Youth Work, or Social Work.

Assessment

All units will be internally assessed using standard methods:

• Coursework
• Portfolio of evidence
• Practical demonstration/assignment.

What could this qualification lead to?

Learners undertaking this qualification may work in job roles such as:

• Residential Childcare Worker
• Children’s Home Support Worker
• Residential Support Worker
• Care Assistant for children and young people
• Key Worker in residential or semi-independent living services
  • Senior Support Worker
  • Team Leader
  • Deputy Manager
  • Children’s Home Manager (with further study and experience).

This qualification is recognised under the Children’s Homes (England) Regulations 2015 as the required standard for individuals working in residential childcare settings.

Learners who complete this qualification with the London College of Professional Studies (LCPS) may progress to further study at a range of recognised UK universities.

Learners may progress to universities such as:

• The University of Sunderland
• The University of Portsmouth
• The University of Northampton
• The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)
• Buckinghamshire New University