Course overview
The NCFE CACHE Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care is a nationally recognised, Ofqual-regulated qualification designed for experienced practitioners who are ready to move into management and senior leadership roles within adult social care.
This qualification develops advanced knowledge of care legislation, governance, safeguarding, and workforce development. It also builds the management and leadership skills needed to lead teams, drive quality improvement, and ensure safe, person-centred care delivery in line with CQC requirements.
On completion, learners are recognised as competent leaders able to manage services, supervise teams, and ensure compliance with sector standards. The qualification supports registration with the CQC as a Registered Manager (where required) and progression to higher-level study such as a Level 6 or 7 management qualification.
Who's It For?
This diploma is ideal for individuals who are:
Experienced care practitioners ready to progress into a leadership or management role.
Deputy Managers, Team Leaders or Supervisors seeking a formal, Ofqual-regulated qualification.
Registered Managers needing to demonstrate competence for CQC compliance.
Professionals in domiciliary care, residential care, or supported living responsible for service quality and staff development.
Job outcomes
- Registered Manager
- Deputy Manager
- Service Manager
- Care Coordinator
- Team Leader
- Quality Assurance Lead
- Operations Manager within Health and Social Care
What you'll learn
This qualification provides the strategic and operational skills to manage high-quality adult care services. Learners will explore leadership theory, workforce management, service improvement and reflective practice across the following key areas:
Leadership, Communication and Professional Development – Apply leadership models, manage change effectively, and promote professional growth within teams.
Health, Safety, Risk and Wellbeing in Adult Care – Maintain safe environments, manage incidents, and promote wellbeing in line with health and safety legislation.
Person-Centred Leadership and Quality Practice – Champion person-centred care, equality, inclusion and continuous improvement within your organisation.
Supervision, Team Leadership and Professional Development – Lead, mentor and supervise staff to build competent, motivated teams and embed effective performance management practices.
Managing Resources, Change and Innovation – Control budgets, manage resources, implement change projects and foster innovation to improve service delivery.
Research, Ethics and Reflective Practice – Conduct independent research, analyse data to inform decision-making, and evaluate practice through ethical and reflective leadership.
Study method
- Online
- Blended
- In-class
- Virtual
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Duration study load
Most learners complete the course within 12–18 months while working full-time in care.
Delivery
Flexible Online Learning: Access materials 24/7 and study around work commitments.
Entry requirements
There are no formal academic requirements, but learners must:
Hold a Level 3 qualification in Adult Care or Health and Social Care, or have equivalent experience.
Be working in a supervisory or management role within an adult care setting.
Have strong written and verbal communication skills to complete reflective and analytical assignments.
Course features
Why Study with Us
NCFE CACHE Approved Centre: Delivering Ofqual-regulated qualifications recognised by employers and CQC.
Expert Tutor Support: Guidance from qualified assessors and IQAs with extensive sector leadership experience.
Applied Learning Approach: Assignments and workplace evidence are linked to real management practice for immediate impact.
Assessment
The qualification is assessed through a portfolio of evidence that demonstrates leadership knowledge and practical competence. Assessment methods include:
Written assignments and case studies
Research projects and reflective journals
Professional discussions and supervisory evidence
Workplace observations and expert witness statements
There are no formal exams. Learners must achieve all mandatory units to gain the qualification, graded as Achieved or Not Achieved.
Subjects
Module - Core Focus
Leadership, Communication and Professional Development
Health, Safety, Risk and Wellbeing in Adult Care
Person-Centred Leadership and Quality Practice
Supervision, Team Leadership and Professional Development
Managing Resources, Change and Innovation
Research, Ethics and Reflective Practice
The diploma comprises mandatory units totalling 90 credits, combining theoretical knowledge and competence-based practice.
About Orvanta Open College
Orvanta Open College specializes in high-quality Health and Social Care and Child Care education, bridging the gap between flexible online study and real-time human connection. Our interactive learning model features live webinars, collaborative meetings, and structured tutor group sessions that ensure students never learn in isolation. By combining industry-expert guidance with a supportive peer network, we deliver an engaging educational experience that yields high completion rates and practical, career-ready skills. What We Offer At Orvanta Open College, we provide flexible, high-quality online learning designed to help you succeed.Recognised Qualifications - Study Ofqual-regulated courses trusted by employers and universities.Flexible Study - Learn anytime, anywhere with our easy-to-use online platform.Expert Support - Access guidance from qualified tutors and assessors throughout your journey.Career Progression - Gain certificates that open doors to new roles, promotions, or further study.Wide Course Range - Choose from Health and Social Care, Early Years, Business, Education & Training, and more.Why Choose Orvanta Open College?Trusted provider of UK online qualifications.Transparent policies that put learners first.Strong commitment to quality assurance, academic integrity, and learner success.Dedicated student support team providing guidance every step of the way.Competitive course fees with flexible payment options.
