Vocational qualifications (adults) - health and social care/health
The Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF) is the new framework for all vocational qualifications throughout England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The QCF has replaced National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs) and Vocationally Related Qualifications (VRQs) with awards, certificates and diplomas. They are work-related competence-based qualifications that reflect the skills and knowledge required to do a job effectively.
The QCF provides more flexible routes and choice in gaining full qualifications, enabling you to progress your career in smaller and more manageable steps.
National occupational standards
QCF qualifications are based on National Occupational Standards (NOS). These standards are statements of performance that describe what competent people in a particular occupation are expected to be able to do. They cover all the main aspects of an occupation, including current best practice, the ability to adapt to future requirements and the knowledge and understanding that underpin competent performance.
Assessment
QCF qualifications are achieved through work based assessment with competence and knowledge based units. The evidence must at all times reflect the policies and procedures of the workplace as informed by current legislation, the relevant service standards and codes of practice for the sector.
Competence-based units
The main methods of assessment and sources of evidence are by direct observation of a learners performance in the work place by a qualified occupationally competent assessor or an expert witness. Learners must prove they have the competence to meet the required standards.
Knowledge-based units
Learners may choose to undertake the knowledge in one of two ways:
- Portfolio of evidence, using a diverse range of assessment methods - oral questions, written questions, professional discussions, work products, etc.
- Assignments
Our assessment centre
Cambridgeshire County Council Assessment Centre works in partnership with the public, independent and private sectors to offer vocational qualifications. We currently offer the following Health and social care/health (adults) vocational qualifications:
- Level 2 and 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care - all pathways
- Level 2 and 3 Diploma in Clinical Healthcare Support
- Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care and Children and Young People's Services - 3 Adult pathways
- Intermediate Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care - Level 2
- Advanced Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care - Level 3
- Level 2 and 3 Award in Awareness of Dementia and Certificate in Dementia Care
- Level 2 and 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care
- Level 2 Award in Food Safety and Nutrition in Health and Social Care
- Continuous Professional Development - individual units are available on request e.g. assisting people to move, medication, infection prevention and control, etc.
Contact:
Carol McCarthy
Box CC1311
Castle Court
Shire Hall
Cambridge
CB3 0AP
Telephone number 07766781387
email: carol.mccarthy@cambridgehsire.gov.uk