Apprenticeships explained

 

If you’re looking for a new career in adult social care then an apprenticeship may be the perfect avenue to get you started. This article will take a closer look at the entry level apprenticeship in adult social care.

 

What does it mean to work in adult social care?

When you work in adult social care, you will make a positive difference to people’s lives. You’ll provide personal and practical support to help people live their lives and promote their independence. You might work with people who have a physical, sensory or learning disability, autism, dementia or a mental health condition. You could be working in a care home, out in your local community, or in someone’s home.

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a work-based training programme which will last a minimum of 12 months. It combines on-the-job and off-the job learning. Because it’s a work-based programme, apprentices earn whilst they learn. 

You can find more information about apprenticeships from the government here.

What is the Adult Care Worker apprenticeship?

This is the name of the apprenticeship standard for an entry level apprenticeship in adult social care. There are many different job roles covered by this apprenticeship such as; Care Assistant, Care Worker, Support Worker.

As an Adult Care Worker apprentice, you’ll spend at least 20% of your time away from your day-to-day role giving you plenty of time to refine your new understanding and skills. The rest of the time, you’ll be supported by colleagues, mentors and your manager to learn and practice your new skills in the workplace.

What else will I do to complete an Adult Care Worker apprenticeship?

As part of the apprenticeship you’ll receive a thorough induction to the care sector including achieving the 15 Standards as set out in the Care Certificate. 

You’ll be supported to achieve a Level 2 Diploma in Care and qualifications in Literacy and Numeracy if you don’t already have them. 

Towards the end of your apprenticeship, you’ll carry out a self-assessment to see how far you’ve come, and gather testimonials about how you’ve supported people. 

Finally, you’ll complete an end-point assessment.

What is the end-point assessment?

At the end of the apprenticeship you’ll complete an end-point assessment to demonstrate that you’re able to apply the knowledge, skills and behaviours you’ve learnt throughout your time as an Adult Care Worker apprentice.

The end-point assessment is made up of a situational judgement test (a multiple-choice test of your judgement in typical care situations) and a professional discussion (which gives you the chance to explain what you’ve learnt and how you’ve developed).

You’ll be supported throughout your apprenticeship to ensure that you’re fully equipped and ready for the end-point assessment when the time comes. The end-point assessment will be graded and you’ll be awarded with your apprenticeship grade and certificate.

What happens after I complete my Adult Care Worker apprenticeship?

Many employers will be keen for you to stay on with them after you’ve completed your apprenticeship.  You’ll have gained a wealth of skills during your apprenticeship that adult care employers will be looking for, so if it isn’t possible to stay with your employer, see what other jobs are available that interest you.

Completing an apprenticeship is the start of your career.  The adult care sector has lots of varied roles and opportunities to develop further and progress your career.

Find out more about the different roles available in adult care.

Read more about apprenticeships, meet our apprentices and view current apprenticeship vacancies here.