The Lead Adult Care Worker Level 3 Apprenticeship is an excellent pathway for individuals looking to build or advance a rewarding career within the adult care sector. This apprenticeship is designed for those working in residential care, domiciliary support, community settings, or day services, providing essential support and leadership to ensure high-quality, person-centred care for adults with diverse needs.
As a Lead Adult Care Worker, you will develop the confidence and professional competence needed to supervise others, champion best practice, and provide compassionate care. You’ll work under the guidance of experienced care professionals while gaining a nationally recognised qualification that strengthens your ability to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
You will learn to:
To enrol, you must be employed in a relevant role with an employer who will support your learning and development throughout the programme. Apprenticeships are work-based qualifications, so securing a job in the sector is essential before you can begin your training. If you are not currently employed, you can explore our latest apprenticeship vacancies.
We also encourage you to proactively contact local employers to ask if they would consider taking you on as an apprentice. If an employer agrees to support your apprenticeship, please contact us at apprenticeships@calderdale.ac.uk so we can assess your suitability for the programme and begin the enrolment process.
Alternatively, if you do not yet have an employer, you can apply for a full-time course as a starting point. Should you secure employment during your course, you can be transferred onto the apprenticeship pathway.
Start Date
Various Start Dates
Entry Requirements & Interview Process
A minimum of GCSE Grade 4 / C or above in English and Maths is preferred. If you do not hold these qualifications, you will be supported to complete Functional Skills as part of your apprenticeship. For learners aged 19 and over, this requirement will be reviewed and agreed in consultation with your employer as part of the enrolment process.
Progression
On successful completion, apprentices can progress to a Lead Practitioner in Adult Care Level 4 Apprenticeship, senior support roles such as Senior Care Worker, Care Team Leader, or Supervisor, specialised roles within adult care (e.g., dementia care, learning disabilities, reablement) or further qualifications in adult care, leadership, or management.
Career Opportunities
Lead Adult Care Worker, Senior Support Worker, Community Care Worker, Residential Care Senior, Reablement or Support Practitioner
Further career progression may lead to higher-level care qualifications, supervisory and management roles, or specialisation in areas such as dementia care, mental health, or learning disabilities. This apprenticeship provides a solid foundation for a fulfilling and impactful career in adult care, supporting individuals to live healthier, more independent lives.
Assessment Methods
The apprenticeship is delivered through a combination of remote and workplace visits from your dedicated Training and Development. You will receive ongoing support throughout the programme, with your employer actively involved in progress reviews to ensure you stay on track and achieve your full potential.
Course Fees
Apprenticeship training is fully funded by your employer—either through the Apprenticeship Levy or government co-investment, depending on the size of the organisation. As an apprentice, you will not pay for your training or assessment.
Calderdale College has a set of standard entry requirements. Apply for the course you want to study and we will help you get there.
There are a lot of courses available – work focused, practical and academic so it is important to think about the future and whether you want to proceed to university, move onto another course or get a job. We offer BTECs, Apprenticeships, T Levels, NVQs, VRQs, Degree Level Courses and more.
If you’re still not sure, don’t worry, just speak to a member of our advice and guidance team who will advise you.
