Level 5 Leader in Adult Care Apprenticeship

This Leader in Adult Care programme develops confident, capable leaders for the adult care sector. It’s designed for those managing or aspiring to manage services such as nursing homes, domiciliary care agencies, or supported living settings. Learners gain the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care, building the skills to run safe, effective, and person-centred services while meeting CQC standards.

The Level 5 Leader in Adult Care apprenticeship is tailored to people already in, or preparing for, senior leadership roles. It is suitable for registered, deputy, or assistant managers, as well as service or unit managers, and senior team leaders ready to take the next step. It is an excellent fit for professionals who want to take responsibility for whole services and inspire their teams to deliver consistently high-quality care. Check our entry requirements for more information.

Learners develop both strategic knowledge and practical leadership skills essential for running effective services. The programme covers regulatory compliance by applying statutory frameworks, standards, and codes of practice. It also explores risk management by creating strategies to safeguard staff and service users, safeguarding through protecting the dignity and safety of vulnerable adults, and person-centred care by leading services built around individual needs and rights. In addition, it focuses on leadership and culture by motivating teams, embedding values, and driving continuous improvement.

Training is designed to be flexible and workplace-focused. Learners apply their leadership skills directly through on-the-job learning, while also benefiting from off-the-job training such as workshops, online modules, and one-to-one coaching. Reflective practice and portfolio building are incorporated throughout, allowing learners to evidence their progress and demonstrate their impact. This blended approach ensures that learning translates into stronger, more resilient care services.

The Level 5 Leader in Adult Care apprenticeship typically lasts 18 months, depending on prior experience and workplace requirements. Once the training is complete, an additional period is allocated for the End-Point Assessment (EPA).

The End-Point Assessment is the final stage of the apprenticeship, carried out by an independent organisation. It evaluates whether learners can demonstrate the required knowledge, skills, and behaviours through observation of practice, showing leadership in action, and a professional discussion, where learners reflect on their management practice and decisions. Portfolio evidence is also reviewed as part of the process. Learners receive full support from Development Coaches to ensure they are well-prepared for success.

On successful completion, learners are awarded both the Level 5 Leader in Adult Care Apprenticeship Standard and the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care. These nationally recognised qualifications demonstrate readiness for senior leadership within the care sector and are highly respected across the industry.

Funding depends on the type of employer. Levy-paying employers can cover the full cost of training through their apprenticeship levy. Non-levy employers contribute just 5% of the total cost, with the government covering the remaining 95%. Additional support is also available for learners who need to achieve English or maths qualifications alongside the Leader in Adult Care apprenticeship.

This Leader in Adult Care apprenticeship prepares learners for senior positions such as Registered Manager, Service Manager, or Regional Operations Manager. Many graduates progress to the Level 7 Senior Leader Apprenticeship or pursue higher education in care management, enabling them to extend their leadership impact across larger teams and organisations.

Employers benefit by gaining strong, future-ready Leader in Adult Care who can deliver safe, compliant, and person-centred care. Trained leaders are equipped to meet and exceed CQC standards, lead motivated teams with reduced staff turnover, and ensure services are run efficiently and sustainably.