Level 3 Lead Adult Care Worker – Mental Health Apprenticeship

This mental health apprenticeship focuses on developing leaders who can guide teams and support adults experiencing mental ill health. Over 18 months, learners build skills in safeguarding, communication, recovery-focused practice and crisis response. The programme ensures staff return with the confidence and nationally recognised qualification to improve outcomes and raise care standards in mental health services.

Eligibility is open to learners who have lived in the UK, EEA or EU for at least three years and can complete the programme in their role. It’s particularly suited to those working in mental health support who are preparing for, or already stepping into, supervisory or leadership responsibilities. Additional English and Maths may be required depending on age and qualifications. Learn more about our entry requirements. 

Most learners complete this mental health apprenticeship in around 18 months. During that time, they continue their day-to-day work while building a portfolio of evidence, attending structured development sessions and completing off-the-job training. The final stage is an independent End Point Assessment (EPA), which confirms nationally recognised competence in mental health care leadership.

Learning is delivered through a blended approach. Apprentices combine workplace practice with online study, reflective activities and structured training sessions. They apply new skills in real time, from supporting recovery journeys to handling crisis situations. Because the training is integrated into existing duties, employers retain staff while gaining the benefits of improved knowledge, behaviours and leadership confidence.

At the end of the mental health apprenticeship programme, learners take part in an independent assessment. This usually includes a professional discussion based on their portfolio, a presentation with questioning and, in some cases, a practical task. The EPA provides assurance that apprentices are fully capable of leading teams and delivering safe, person-centred mental health care.

Roles that gain the most include senior mental health support workers, care officers, supervisors and team leaders. It’s also valuable for those progressing from Level 2 qualifications into positions with more responsibility. Employers benefit from staff who can confidently guide teams, support recovery and wellbeing, and respond effectively to the challenges of mental health care.

There are no tuition fees for employers. This mental health apprenticeship is fully funded through the Apprenticeship Levy or government support for smaller organisations. The only requirement is supporting staff with time for off-the-job training, which pays off through stronger leadership, more resilient teams and improved mental health outcomes.

Off-the-job training doesn’t take staff away from their roles for long periods — instead, it’s woven into working hours. Learners might shadow colleagues, practise new de-escalation techniques, take part in reflective exercises or attend workshops. This ensures that new skills are tested in real-world mental health settings, giving employers immediate service improvements.

Completing this mental health apprenticeship gives learners a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification. From there, they can progress to higher-level apprenticeships such as the Level 5 Leader in Adult Care, or explore specialist areas within mental health practice. For employers, this creates clear pathways that keep staff motivated, engaged and committed to long-term careers in mental health.

Support comes from dedicated tend Development Coaches, who guide learners throughout the programme with feedback tailored to mental health care. Employers also benefit from regular updates and progress reviews, ensuring the training is aligned with organisational needs. This partnership helps learners succeed while giving organisations confidence that their investment is driving real improvements in care.