NCFE CACHE Technical Occupational Entry in Social Care Diploma (Advanced) - Level 3
Overview
IMPORTANT
Applications are now open for academic year 2026/2027, but our full-time courses are still being finalised. If your chosen course changes, we’ll contact you to offer a suitable alternative that matches your goals. For more information, call our Enquiries Team on 0808 100 3626.
This is a vocational course equivalent to 3 A Levels and an inclusive alternative to T Level in Health. The course had been built around employer-led occupational standards, meaning it's shaped by what the care sector needs, and provides access to social work and nursing degrees, while also preparing you for direct entry into the health and care workforce.
Start dates and fees
| Start Date | Code | Annual Fee | Actions |
| Sep 2026 | 4159A1189 | FREE | Apply |
What will I study?
The specification is currently being written for this course - please check back at a later date or contact our Enquiries Team on 0808 100 3626 or via email at enquiries@wnc.ac.uk.
Entry requirements
- This course is only avaliable to 16-18 year olds.
- Five GCSEs at grade 4-9 including English language, maths and science
OR
- Completion of the NCFE CACHE Certificate in Health and Social Care (Intermediate) - Level 2 plus GCSE English language, maths and science at grade 4-9.
You will need to have a successful DBS check.
You will also need to supply a written reference from your teacher or employer along with your current school/college report to indicate your attendance pattern and achievements.
Study programmes - essential skills for employment
If you’re aged 16-18 (or 19-25 with an EHC Plan), we want to make sure you have the best possible chances of landing an awesome job once you finish college.
Therefore, if you do not have GCSE grade 4-9 in either English Language or Maths, you will study one or both of these courses alongside your full-time study programme. If you do have GCSE grade 4-9 in English Language and Maths then you will not be required to undertake these subjects. By doing so, you'll be building a stronger set of skills that will significantly boost your employability in the future.
Think of it as a chance to supercharge your knowledge and abilities. You'll be equipped with the tools necessary to tackle the world beyond college with confidence. Plus, we'll be right here to support you every step of the way.
How long is the course?
Two years.
How will I be assessed?
The assessment information is currently being written for this course - please check back at a later date or contact our Enquiries Team on 0808 100 3626 or via email at enquiries@wnc.ac.uk.
What can I progress onto?
*As we are a partner college of Nottingham Trent University (NTU), you may qualify for various benefits should you choose to apply to NTU after completing your college course. This could include a Progress NTU offer, where you would receive an offer one grade below their standard offer. For instance, a typical offer for one of their courses might require 128 UCAS tariff points. With Progress NTU, your requirements would be 120 UCAS tariff points. For further details, please call us on 0808 100 3626 or discover more about this benefit here.