Level 5 · Adult Social Care · Ofqual-regulated qualification

NCFE CACHE Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

The definitive qualification required by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) for Registered Managers. Master governance, financial control, human resources, and high-quality service delivery.

15–24 monthsOnline distance learning£999.00 pay in full

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Key facts

  • Awarding organisation: NCFE CACHE
  • Level: Level 5
  • Typical duration: 15–24 months
  • Study mode: Online distance learning
  • Fee: £999.00 in full, or £399.60 deposit plus 6 monthly payments of £99.90 (0% interest)
  • Delivered by Orvanta Open College, NCFE approved centre 11000895

Course Overview: NCFE CACHE Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

The NCFE CACHE Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) is designed for managers, deputy managers, and assistant managers of adult social care services.

It is a comprehensive, high-level qualification that covers leadership models, strategic decision making, service evaluation, regulatory compliance, and personnel management.

Skills for Care recommends this Level 5 diploma for registered managers of adult social care services. CQC assesses whether a registered manager has the qualifications, competence, skills and experience needed for the role.

Who this course is for

  • Registered Managers of care homes, nursing homes, or domiciliary care agencies.
  • Deputy Managers or Assistant Managers preparing to step up.
  • Care Business Owners seeking to understand regulatory expectations.
  • Seniors with management duties aiming to achieve the ultimate care qualification.

What you will learn

  • Lead and manage teams in adult care environments.
  • Govern financial resources, commissioning, and business operations.
  • Develop and implement robust quality assurance systems.
  • Manage safeguarding, whistleblowing, and regulatory compliance.
  • Foster inclusive, reflective, and continuous professional practice.
  • Coordinate complex partnership working across health and social care sectors.

Course units and syllabus

  • Leadership and Management in Adult Care
  • Governance, Quality and Compliance in Adult Care
  • Resource Management in Adult Care Services
  • Safeguarding and Protection in Care Services
  • Managing Communication and Information Flow
  • Continuous Professional Development and Reflective Practice
  • Partnership Working and Collaborative Care Delivery

Entry requirements

  • Learners must be aged 18 or over.
  • Must be working in a managerial, supervisory, or assistant manager role in an adult care setting.
  • Prior achievement of a Level 3 care qualification is highly recommended.

Assessment

  • Professional discussions, reflective logs, and case studies.
  • Analysis of workplace policies, procedures, and reports.
  • Workplace observations or witness testimonies from senior executives/directors.

Progression

  • Higher Professional Certificates in Care Management.
  • Postgraduate studies in Social Care Leadership, Health Administration, or Business Management (MBA).

Career roles

  • Registered Care Manager
  • Care Home Manager / Director
  • Domiciliary Care Agency Manager
  • Operations Manager in Social Care
  • Day Centre / Community Service Director

Frequently asked questions

Is this the qualification registered managers need?

Skills for Care recommends the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care for registered managers. CQC does not name one required qualification; it assesses whether a registered manager has the qualifications, competence, skills and experience needed for the role.

How long does it take to complete?

The typical duration is 15 to 24 months, depending on your role and how much time you can give each week.

Who can enrol?

You must be aged 18 or over and working in a managerial, supervisory or assistant manager role in an adult care setting. A Level 3 care qualification is highly recommended.

How is the Level 5 assessed?

Through professional discussions, reflective accounts, case studies and analysis of your service's policies and reports, supported by workplace observation or witness testimony. There is no exam.

What does it cost?

The fee is £999 in full, or a £399.60 deposit followed by 6 monthly payments of £99.90, interest free.

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Call 0161 641 5819 or email info@orvantaopencollege.co.uk.

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