Course overview
NCFE CACHE Level 2 Technical Occupational Entry in Healthcare Support Diploma City of Bristol CollegeThis qualification is designed to provide learners with the knowledge, understanding and skills required to develop competence as a healthcare support worker in a range of healthcare support settings. The qualification will provide employers with reliable evidence of a learner’s attainment against occupational standard knowledge, skills and behaviours (KSBs), which form the minimum requirements for entry into the occupation.
The NCFE CACHE Level 2 Technical Occupational Entry in Healthcare Support Diploma is a nationally recognised qualification designed for learners aged 16+ who want to start a career in healthcare. Equivalent to GCSE level study, this diploma develops the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to work as a healthcare support worker, healthcare assistant, or nursing assistant. The course covers key areas such as communication, person-centred care, safeguarding, health and safety, equality and inclusion, and supporting individuals with physical and mental health needs.
Learners will also have the opportunity to develop and practise their skills in our specialist simulation sites, gaining hands-on experience in realistic healthcare environments. Assessed through a portfolio of evidence and supported by practical experience, this qualification provides a strong foundation for employment in healthcare or progression to Level 3 study.
Dates and applications
Please hover over the ‘i’ button to find out more about course fees and applications.
| Course Code | Dates | Days | Hours per week | Start Time | Location | Fee | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZC-HCSL2-01X/FC01 | 07/09/2026 - 30/06/2027 | Date/Day(s) Being Finalised | 10.00 | Enquire | College Green Centre |
This course is still in its planning phase; course details - including fee information - are subject to change. In June, course details will be finalised and enrolment will open.
|
Apply |
| ZS-HCSL2-01X/FC01 | 07/09/2026 - 30/06/2027 | Date/Day(s) Being Finalised | 10.00 | Enquire | SBSA and Construction Centre |
This course is still in its planning phase; course details - including fee information - are subject to change. In June, course details will be finalised and enrolment will open.
|
Apply |
Additional information
Who is this course for?
This qualification is designed for learners aged 16 to 19 and adults who wish to work or are already working in healthcare settings in England, such as in a hospital, as part of a community team, in a day-case unit, birthing centre, individuals’ homes, operating theatres, nursing or care homes, hospices and in general practice.
It may also be useful to learners studying qualifications in health and social care or a related subject area. The units within this qualification can also be a basis for continuing professional development in the learner’s chosen field.
What you'll learn
The qualification is formed of mandatory and optional units.
Mandatory Units will cover:
- Responsibilities of a Healthcare Support Worker
- Duty of Care
- Safeguarding and Protection in Healthcare Settings
- The Principles of Infection Prevention and Control Cleaning
- Decontamination and Waste Management
- Understand Mental Health Conditions
- Undertake Physiological Measurements
- Optional units: TBC
Course entry requirements
4 GCSES at Grade 3- must include Maths and English
How is the course delivered and assessed?
The NCFE CACHE Level 2 Technical Occupational Entry in Healthcare Support Diploma is assessed through a portfolio of evidence. This means you will complete a range of practical and written tasks that demonstrate your knowledge and skills.
Assessment methods may include:
- Written assignments
- Workbooks and task-based activities
- Professional discussions
- Practical observations (where applicable)
- Evidence from simulation or work placement
All assessments are internally assessed by your tutor/assessor and externally quality assured by NCFE to ensure national standards are met.
There are no final exams — instead, you build evidence throughout the course to show your competence and understanding.
Future career and study opportunities
Further learning:
T-level Generic Nursing pathway QQA Mental Health, Health and Social Care routes Level 3 Apprenticeship Career opportunities Learners who achieve this qualification could progress to the following job roles: healthcare support worker Healthcare assistant Mental health support worker Nursing assistant
Additional costs
You may be asked to purchase a textbook and a uniform if going on a placement.
