Level 3 Senior Healthcare Support Worker – Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Apprenticeship

The Level 3 ABI Support Worker Apprenticeship is a specialised programme within adult care, designed to give learners the knowledge, skills, and behaviours needed to support individuals with acquired brain injuries under the guidance of a registered healthcare practitioner. On completion, learners achieve a Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support, along with the Care Certificate if it has not already been obtained.

This apprenticeship is well-suited to those already working in, or aspiring to join, specialist brain injury care teams. It is ideal for support workers, rehabilitation assistants, and healthcare professionals working in ABI environments such as rehabilitation centres, care homes, or community-based services. See our full entry requirements here.

Learners follow a structured journey of development. In the early months, the focus is on person-centred care, duty of care, safeguarding, equality, and inclusion. During the mid-phase, training builds on these foundations by developing skills in promoting physical and mental wellbeing, effective communication, and information handling. In the later stage, the emphasis shifts to health and safety, infection prevention and control, leadership, delegated nursing support, and preparation for the End-Point Assessment.

The programme is delivered through a blended learning model. On-the-job experience takes place in real-world ABI care settings, with learners working alongside occupational therapists, physiotherapists, speech therapists, and nursing practitioners. Alongside this, off-the-job learning includes structured modules, reflective practice, portfolio development, and End-Point Assessment preparation. The programme typically spans 21 months, ensuring that knowledge is applied directly to practice.

The apprenticeship usually takes around 21 months to complete. Once sufficient progress has been made, and the employer confirms readiness, learners move through the EPA gateway and progress to the End-Point Assessment.

The End-Point Assessment consists of two main elements. The first is an observation of practice, supported by questioning, which assesses real-time care delivery. The second is a professional discussion underpinned by a portfolio of evidence, where learners demonstrate their knowledge, decision-making, and impact on service users. 

On successful completion, learners gain the Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support, the Care Certificate if it is not already achieved, and the Senior Healthcare Support Worker (ABI) Apprenticeship Standard. These qualifications are nationally recognised and provide a strong platform for further clinical progression.

To be eligible, learners must have lived in the UK, EEA, or EU for at least three years and be committed to completing the full programme. Those without Level 2 qualifications in English and maths under the age of 18 will work towards achieving them during the apprenticeship. Learn more about the entry requirements here.

Completing this programme opens doors to a wide range of specialist healthcare careers. Learners may progress into roles such as rehabilitation support practitioner or senior clinical support, and many choose to move into nursing or therapeutic professions with further study. The apprenticeship provides a strong foundation in clinical excellence while building leadership potential.

Employers gain team members who are trained in ABI-specific, person-centred approaches and ready to work effectively within multi-disciplinary teams. Learners complete the programme equipped with nationally recognised healthcare qualifications, the skills to deliver safe and compassionate rehabilitation, and the ability to provide tailored, high-quality support. This enhances both workforce capability and the standard of care delivered.