Course Overview
-
Assessment methodPortfolio of Evidence
-
Credit value58
-
Guided learning hours (GLH)389
-
Total qualification time (TQT)580
The Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England) is a nationally recognised qualification designed for individuals working as lead adult care workers, care supervisors, or personal assistants. This competence-based diploma enables learners to demonstrate both knowledge and practical skills in delivering person-centred, safe, and effective adult care across various settings such as residential homes, domiciliary care, healthcare services, and day centres.
Objectives
-
Promote values-driven, person-centred care practices.
-
Support individuals’ health, wellbeing, dignity, and independence.
-
Enable learners to manage risks and uphold safeguarding responsibilities.
-
Develop professional communication, information handling, and care planning.
-
Facilitate continuing professional development in adult social care.
Entry Requirements
-
No formal entry requirements.
-
Recommended: Level 2 literacy and numeracy or equivalent.
-
Learners must be aged 16+.
-
Must be in a role (paid or voluntary) where they can demonstrate workplace competence.
Practical Requirements
Learners must have access to an adult care setting to demonstrate competence-based outcomes in real working environments. Assessment involves both theoretical knowledge and practical performance.
Assessment
Assessment Method: Portfolio of evidence evaluated in the workplace.
Assessment methods include:
-
Direct observation
-
Reflective accounts
-
Work products
-
Witness testimonies
-
Questioning and professional discussions
Duration
-
Typical Completion Time: 9-12 months
✅ Course Structure
Mandatory Units (39 Credits)
| Unit Ref | Unit Title | Level | GLH | Credit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| J/650/3395 | Promoting Effective Communication in Care Settings | 3 | 31 | 4 |
| K/650/3396 | Effective Handling of Information in Care Settings | 3 | 18 | 2 |
| L/650/3397 | Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in Care Settings | 3 | 15 | 3 |
| M/650/3398 | Promoting Personal Wellbeing | 3 | 8 | 2 |
| R/650/3399 | Promoting Person-Centred Practice in Care Settings | 3 | 18 | 2 |
| F/650/3400 | Promoting Choice and Independence in Care Settings | 3 | 18 | 2 |
| H/650/3401 | Promoting Individuals’ Health and Wellbeing in Care Settings | 3 | 17 | 2 |
| J/650/3402 | Promoting Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Human Rights in Care Settings | 3 | 19 | 3 |
| K/650/3403 | Promoting General Health and Safety in Care Settings | 3 | 14 | 2 |
| L/650/3404 | Promoting Specialised Health and Safety in Care Settings | 3 | 17 | 2 |
| M/650/3405 | Promoting Infection Prevention and Control in Care Settings | 3 | 17 | 2 |
| R/650/3406 | Care Worker Responsibilities and Ways of Working | 3 | 12 | 2 |
| T/650/3407 | The Principles of Duty of Care in Care Settings | 3 | 15 | 2 |
| Y/650/3408 | The Principles of Safeguarding and Protection in Care Settings | 3 | 39 | 5 |
| A/650/3409 | The Principles of Mental Capacity and Restrictive Practice in Care Settings | 3 | 35 | 4 |
Optional Units (Minimum 19 Credits)
| Unit Ref | Unit Title | Level | GLH | Credit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H/650/3410 | Essential Digital Skills for Working in Care | 3 | 27 | 4 |
| L/601/3539 | Understand the Role of Communication with Individuals Who Have Dementia | 3 | 26 | 3 |
| A/616/7440 | Understand How to Support Individuals with Autistic Spectrum Conditions | 3 | 35 | 4 |
| D/616/6443 | Understand the Context of Supporting Individuals with Learning Disabilities | 3 | 35 | 4 |
| K/616/7451 | Move and Position Individuals in Accordance with Their Care Plan | 2 | 26 | 4 |
Total Credits: 58
Course Content (Topics)
-
Communication, person-centred care, and safeguarding
-
Information governance and infection prevention
-
Promoting wellbeing, resilience, and equality
-
Mental capacity and restrictive practices
-
Health and safety and risk management
-
Supporting individuals with dementia, autism, and learning disabilities
-
Promoting digital competence and mobility support
Unit Summary
This qualification develops the professional competencies required for adult care roles at Level 3. Learners gain practical experience in supporting people’s rights, independence, health, safety, and wellbeing. The optional units offer tailored pathways into specialised areas such as dementia care, autism, digital skills, and physical support. The course supports career progression and provides a foundation for leadership roles within adult care.
📈 Progression Opportunities
Upon successful completion of this course, learners can progress to:
-
Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management in Adult Care (RQF)
-
Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Care (RQF)
-
Higher education or apprenticeships in health and social care leadership and management
