Level 3 Lead Adult Care Worker – Dementia Apprenticeship

It’s an 18-month, fully funded programme that develops confident dementia care leaders. Learners build skills in communication, safeguarding, mental capacity, wellbeing and person-centred support, while gaining leadership behaviours to guide teams effectively. Employers gain staff with nationally recognised qualifications who improve standards across dementia care.

Learners must have lived in the UK, EEA or EU for three years and complete the programme within their role. Those aged 16–18 without Maths and English qualifications study them alongside. For those aged 19+, Functional Skills can be agreed with the employer. It’s aimed at staff in dementia care stepping into or already holding leadership roles. Learn more about our entry requirements here. 

The programme lasts 18 months and combines day-to-day work with structured learning. Learners build portfolios and complete off-the-job training integrated into existing duties. It concludes with an independent End Point Assessment (EPA), ensuring credibility and national recognition. Employers benefit from skilled staff who develop while remaining in role.

It’s delivered through blended learning — workplace practice, structured development sessions and online resources. Learners apply new approaches immediately in dementia care settings. Off-the-job training fits within normal duties, so employers keep staff engaged in daily care while they build new skills and confidence.

The EPA is an independent assessment confirming learners meet required standards. It typically includes a professional discussion supported by a portfolio, a presentation with questioning, and sometimes a practical task. Its independence ensures credibility, giving employers confidence that staff are ready to lead dementia care effectively.

It’s ideal for supervisory or leadership roles in dementia care, such as senior care workers, dementia support supervisors, team leaders and care officers. It also suits staff progressing from Level 2 qualifications. Employers gain learners who return with leadership confidence, stronger safeguarding knowledge and improved communication skills.

The apprenticeship is fully funded, so there are no tuition fees. Funding is provided through the Apprenticeship Levy or government support for smaller employers. Employers simply need to give staff time for off-the-job training, which leads to stronger skills, greater confidence and higher-quality dementia care provision.

Off-the-job training makes up 20% of the programme but is built into normal duties. It includes reflective practice, shadowing, research and attending meetings. Employers benefit as learners gain new skills while continuing to provide care, ensuring immediate improvements in dementia services.

Completion leads to a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification. Learners can progress to higher-level apprenticeships such as the Level 5 Leader in Adult Care or degree pathways in health professions. Employers benefit from clear staff development routes that improve retention, motivation and leadership strength in dementia care.

Learners receive tailored guidance from tend Development Coaches, helping them succeed throughout the programme. Employers get regular progress updates to align training with organisational goals. This ensures staff develop the right skills while delivering real improvements in dementia care quality and leadership.