Level 5 Diploma in Leading and Managing an Adult Care Service (RQF)
A structured 52-week fast-track programme for existing and aspiring care leaders — qualify while you continue to work.
- Duration
- 52-week programme
- Entry
- Level 3 in Adult Care (or equivalent) and leadership experience
- Fee
- £1,000
About this qualification
A structured 52-week fast-track programme for existing and aspiring care leaders — qualify while you continue to work. Fast-track route to registered manager status. The programme combines weekly live tutor-led sessions, dedicated assessor support and workplace-based assessment, so you can qualify while you continue to work.
This is a RQF qualification on the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) — nationally recognised and regulated by Ofqual.
Who it's for
- Registered managers leading an adult care service
- Deputy and senior managers preparing to step up
- Care home owners and service directors
- Experienced leaders wanting formal recognition of their expertise
What's covered
24 unitsTap a unit to see what you'll learn.
This is the RQF core plus the most commonly chosen optional units. Your exact unit pathway is agreed with your assessor at induction, and the full specification is available on request.
Assessment in your workplace
This is a work-based qualification, so your evidence is gathered in your real care role — not in an exam hall. Your assessor will arrange:
- Two workplace observations of your leadership practice (additional observations chargeable)
- Recorded professional discussion and Q&A
- Witness statements from your manager
- Work products such as care plans, risk assessments and audits
- Written assignments with mentor guidance
What's included
Everything you need to qualify is included in the course fee — no surprise extras for tutor time, marking or your learning resources.
- Structured 52-week leadership programme
- Weekly live tutor-led sessions
- Dedicated assessor and mentor support
- Tutor videos for every unit
- 1-to-1 mentor appointments
- Monthly live group sessions
- Bespoke learning management system
- Practical leadership apps and tools
- Workplace-based assessment
- Guidance on LDSS employer funding
Fees and payment
£1,000
Instalments available
Pay in full: £1,000 one-off — with the same tutor, assessor and marking support.
Pay £1,000 in full or spread the cost with an instalment plan agreed with our admissions team. Employers in England may be able to access LDSS funding for this qualification.
Awarding body registration: if you pay in full you'll be registered within two weeks. On a payment plan you're registered once at least two monthly payments have been made, and you'll receive an email confirmation.
Intake dates
Ongoing enrolment
Start when you're ready
Places are limited so every learner gets dedicated tutor and assessor support.
Frequently asked questions
This Level 5 Diploma is the recognised leadership and management qualification for registered managers, deputy managers and senior care leaders in adult social care. CQC registration requirements also depend on the service you manage — we're happy to talk it through.
Apply for the Level 5 Diploma in Leading and Managing an Adult Care Service (RQF)
Complete the application and our admissions team will be in touch with the next steps — usually within two working days.