Level 5 · Residential Childcare · Ofqual-regulated qualification

NCFE CACHE Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (England) (RQF)

The Level 5 residential childcare leadership course named in England's children's homes regulations for managers, alongside permitted equivalent qualifications. Develop leadership, safeguarding governance, team management, and residential childcare practice.

15–24 monthsOnline distance learning£1,250.00 pay in full

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Key facts

  • Awarding organisation: NCFE CACHE
  • Qualification number: 601/4845/7
  • Level: Level 5
  • Typical duration: 15–24 months
  • Study mode: Online distance learning
  • Fee: £1,250.00 in full, or £500.00 deposit plus 6 monthly payments of £125.00 (0% interest)
  • Delivered by Orvanta Open College, NCFE approved centre 11000895

Course Overview: Level 5 Leadership & Management for Residential Childcare

The NCFE CACHE Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (England) (RQF) is the qualification route named in regulation 28 for children's home managers, alongside qualifications a registered provider considers equivalent.

It covers the advanced competencies needed to lead a safe, well-run children's home, including therapeutic leadership, statutory reporting, staff training, and safeguarding governance.

Who this course is for

  • Registered Managers or aspiring managers of residential children's homes.
  • Deputy Managers or Senior Residential Care Workers looking to progress.
  • Owners and directors of residential children's services.

What you will learn

  • Manage professional development and training systems.
  • Govern safeguarding, safety risks, and crisis resolution.
  • Implement Ofsted Quality Standards across the service.
  • Lead a therapeutic, trauma-informed environment.

Course units and syllabus

  • Principles of Leadership and Management in Residential Childcare
  • Lead and Manage Group Living for Children
  • Govern Safeguarding and Protection Systems
  • Manage Business and Human Resources in Children's Homes

Entry requirements

  • Must be aged 19 or over.
  • Must be working as a deputy or manager in an appropriate residential childcare setting, or have the opportunity to carry out responsibilities associated with those roles.

Assessment

  • Portfolio of management evidence, system audits, and professional discussions.

Progression

  • Postgraduate studies in Social Work, Child Psychotherapy, or Advanced Care Management.

Career roles

  • Children's Home Registered Manager
  • Children's Services Operations Director
  • Residential Care Consultant

Frequently asked questions

Does this meet Ofsted requirements?

This is the Level 5 qualification named in regulation 28 for registered managers of children's homes. The regulation also permits a qualification that the registered provider considers equivalent.

Who can enrol?

You must be aged 19 or over and working as a deputy or manager in a residential childcare setting, or have the opportunity to carry out the responsibilities of those roles.

How is the Level 5 assessed?

Through a portfolio of management evidence, including audits of your home's systems and professional discussions with your assessor. There is no exam.

How long does it take and what does it cost?

The typical duration is 15 to 24 months. The fee is £1,250 in full, or a £500 deposit followed by 6 monthly payments of £125, interest free.

I manage a fostering service. Is this the right course?

For fostering services, the Fostering Services National Minimum Standards name the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care and Children and Young People's Services. We offer that diploma on the Children and Young People's Management pathway.

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

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