How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directy
College
You could do a college course, which may help you when applying for more senior care jobs.
Courses include:
- health and social care
- adult care
- health and social care management
- T Level in Health
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
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Apprenticeship
You could apply to do a Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship, such as:
- Lead Adult Care Worker
- Senior Healthcare Support Worker
You might also train by doing a Lead Practitioner in Adult Care Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship.
These apprenticeships can take up to 2 years to complete and are a mix of workplace training and classroom study.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could start as a care support worker or healthcare assistant and move into a senior role through further training and promotion.
Volunteering
You can get some of the skills and knowledge you need for this career by volunteering with an organisation that supports vulnerable people.
You can find volunteering opportunities through:
Direct Application
You can apply directly for senior care jobs if you have skills, experience and a qualification in social care or healthcare.
A caring personality is very important, as is a respectful attitude towards people who need care and support.
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Career tips
Time spent caring for someone you know also counts as having experience in a caring role.
Further information
You can find out more about careers in care from: