• Access Duration:  2 Years
• Awarded by: NCFE  CACHE
• Qualification Level:  Level 2
• Qualification Number: 601/8855/8
• Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 360
• Total Qualification Time (TQT): 420

• Discuss the meaning of equality, diversity, inclusion and person-centred practice and how to apply them in care settings.
• Describe the phases of life and discuss the variations of social, emotional, mental and physical growth of human beings over time.
• Describe the laws that protect people, different types of abuse and the role of the practitioner in keeping people safe.
• Discuss how to communicate well, grow professional relationships, and keep information safe.
• Outline the values, roles, and importance of continuing professional development in health and social care.
• Learn how to prevent and control infections by learning about microorganisms and how they spread, proper hand washing, PPE, and safe disposal of trash.
• Use person-centred care, the law and available support services to support people with dementia or mental health needs.

This qualification is for people aged 16 and over who want to learn the basics and work in health and social care. With this, you can progress to Level 3 studies or jobs such as care support worker or a healthcare assistant.

This course is ideal for:

• School leavers
• Care support workers
• Healthcare Assistants
• Care Support Workers
• Learners progressing from the Level 2 Certificate
• Individuals returning to education to enter the care sector
• Apprentices seeking a regulated qualification

• Learners must be at least 16 years old.
• Work placement of 30 hours is recommended but not mandatory.

• This course can be completed through two flexible study options to suit your lifestyle:
  • Standard Course Plan (9- 12 months) – ideal for learners balancing other commitments.
  • Fast Track Option (5 months) – perfect for those who can dedicate intensive study time.
• Most learners complete within their chosen timeframe, though some may finish earlier depending on personal circumstances and available study time. We accommodate your pace with unlimited support for 24 months. This Level 2 Extended Diploma requires approximately 360 guided learning hours.

T&C apply

• There are no formal written exams.
• This qualification is assessed through a portfolio of evidence. The portfolio may include written assignments, case studies, reflective diaries, professional discussions, activity plans, learner work products, and responses to oral or written questions.
• No workplace assessment is required for this qualification. Learners are, however, encouraged to undertake a work placement to support their learning.
• A placement gives you the opportunity to put into practice what you have learnt, see how professionals do their jobs, get feedback and reflect on your own experience.
• All evidence for assessment should be in English language.

Mentor Guidance and Support

• Our experienced mentors will guide and support you throughout the assessment process. You can reach them via email.

This qualification allows you to progress to higher-level studies in health and social care, from Level 3 through to postgraduate level.

Next Steps for a Possible Academic Progression Pathway

• Step 1: Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care.
• Step 2:Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Health and Social Care Practice.
• Step 3: Level 5 Higher National Diploma (HND) in Health and Social Care.
• Step 4: Level 6 Diploma in Health and Social Care Management.

Alternative Pathways 

• Apprenticeships in Adult Care or Healthcare Support (Level 2 to Level 5).
• Specialist CPD courses in dementia, mental health, end of life care, or safeguarding.
• Professional qualifications in Nursing Associate or Assistant Practitioner roles.
• Level 3 Diplomas in Clinical Healthcare Support or Maternity Support.

The NCFE CACHE Level 2 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care could give you the skills to work in a variety of entry level and support roles.

Here are some career opportunities you could pursue as you gain experience and complete this qualification, along with approximate UK salaries. (Source: Glassdoor UK)

• Residential Support Worker – £26000
• Healthcare Assistant – £25,000
• Community Based Support Worker – £24000
• Care assistant – £24000
• Care Support Worker – £23000

This qualification is regulated by Ofqual, the UK government’s Office for Qualifications and Examinations Regulation. Ofqual regulation ensures that the qualification meets national standards for quality, consistency, and fairness. It means the course content, assessment methods, and learning outcomes are carefully monitored, giving learners confidence that the qualification is credible, well recognised, and supports progression to further study or employment in the UK.

RQF

The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) is a system used in England, Northern Ireland, and Wales to categorise and regulate qualifications based on their level of difficulty and size. RQF is jointly regulated by England’s regulator Ofqual, Wales DCELLS, and Northern Ireland’s CCEA. The RQF ensures qualifications are standardised, making it easier for learners, employers, and educational institutions to understand the value and level of each qualification. The framework consists of nine levels, from Entry Level to Level 8, with each level indicating the complexity and depth of learning. For a qualification to be recognised as part of the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF), it must be created or approved by an awarding body that is acknowledged by one of the government-appointed regulatory bodies.