Level 3

Technical Occupational Entry in Social Care Diploma Level 3 (NCFE CACHE)

The NCFE CACHE Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry Diploma is a career-focused qualification designed to prepare learners for entry into professional roles across the education, care and support sectors. It provides the knowledge, skills and…

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The NCFE CACHE Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry Diploma is a career-focused qualification designed to prepare learners for entry into professional roles across the education, care and support sectors. It provides the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to begin working in industry-relevant settings while building a strong foundation for future career progression.

Throughout the course, learners develop a broad understanding of their chosen occupational pathway, combining core theoretical knowledge with practical and technical skills required in real-world environments. The qualification aligns with relevant occupational standards and focuses on developing competence for roles such as support workers, teaching assistants, or care professionals, depending on the pathway studied.

Learners explore key topics related to professional practice, safeguarding, communication, and supporting individuals within workplace settings. The programme also allows learners to tailor elements of their study to their interests, job role, or progression goals, helping them build skills that are directly relevant to employment in the sector.

Find out more about our A Level pathways and how to apply

This course is ideal for school leavers who want to develop their knowledge and practical skills to progress into careers within the health and social care sector.

The qualification covers a wide range of areas, including units such as:

  • Working in social care
  • The care and support planning process
  • Values and behaviours in care settings
  • Mental health and wellbeing
  • Learning disabilities
  • Dementia awareness
  • Health and safety
  • Prevention and control of infection
  • Personal and professional development

Learners will need at least five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including Maths and English.

Successful completion of this qualification can support progression into employment, apprenticeships, or further study within health, social care, education, or related fields. Learners may also progress to higher education degree courses or advanced apprenticeships.

Students may be required to purchase a course textbook and a placement uniform.

How to apply?

Your admissions journey will follow a number of straightforward steps and will likely follow a similar format to the steps outlined on our ‘How to Apply‘ page.

For 16-18 courses, places will be offered for a specific course of study at City of Bristol College, subject to the applicant meeting all course entry criteria.

What support is available to me as a student?

You’ll have our support for every step of your studies. We’re here to help make sure you get the support that you need to succeed.

  • Careers Advice
  • Learning Support
  • Students in Care
  • Fees & Financial Support
  • Mental Health Support
  • Academic and Personal Support
What facilities will I have access to as a student here?

From state-of-the-art engineering, construction and motor vehicle centres to welcoming spaces for A Levels, technical and vocational courses, our facilities are designed to support students in developing the skills, knowledge and experience they need for their future.

Explore our centres, as well as our training restaurants and salons, where students can put their learning into practice in professional environments.

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