Health & Social Care

    Highfield Qualifications
    Vocational

    Specification: 610/6174/8

    The HIGHFIELD-QUALIFICATIONS Vocational Health & Social Care specification covers 367 topics with 765 learning objectives (610/6174/8). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.

    This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.

    367

    Units

    765

    Learning Outcomes

    1832

    Assessment Guidance

    1962

    Key Skills

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    Key Features

    • Master key concepts
    • Develop exam technique
    • Apply knowledge effectively

    Common Exam Mistakes

    Pitfalls to avoid in your exams

    • •Failing to link theory to practice.
    • •Not providing specific examples from experience.
    • •Overlooking the importance of person-centred care.
    • •Forgetting to check for danger before approaching.
    • •Pushing too slowly or too fast during CPR.
    • •Placing AED pads incorrectly.
    • •Learners often confuse mental health first aid with professional counselling or therapy, leading them to overstep boundaries by offering ongoing emotional support or advice.
    • •A frequent error is believing that a mental health first aider needs to diagnose conditions; candidates must recognise that their role is to support and signpost, not to label or treat.

    Top Examiner Tips

    Expert advice for exam success

    • •Prepare real-life examples from your work.
    • •Practice explaining your reasoning.
    • •Focus on the standards set by the apprenticeship.
    • •Remember DRSABCD: Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR, Defibrillation.
    • •Practice CPR rhythm to 'Stayin' Alive' beat.
    • •Always follow AED voice prompts.
    • •When answering scenario-based questions, explicitly state the action you would take rather than offering generic advice; use phrases like 'I would listen non-judgmentally' or 'I would signpost to the employee assistance programme'.
    • •Remember that the assessor is looking for application of the mental health first aid action plan, so structure your response around immediate support, listening, providing reassurance, and encouraging professional help.

    Qualification Units

    367 units

    How this qualification is graded

    Vocational qualifications are marked against criteria, not an exam percentage. Each unit is assessed across three bands - build up from Pass by applying your knowledge to realistic workplace scenarios.

    Pass

    Accurately describe and explain the core knowledge for the unit and link it to the given scenario.

    Merit

    Apply and analyse that knowledge in detail, showing why it matters in the workplace context.

    Distinction

    Evaluate and justify decisions, weigh up alternatives and make well-reasoned professional recommendations.

    Highfield Level 3 End-point Assessment for ST0217 Senior Healthcare Support Worker - Core Content

    This end-point assessment covers key principles and practices for senior healthcare support workers, requiring application of knowledge in practical contexts and demonstration of core competencies.

    Highfield Level 3 End-point Assessment for ST0217 Senior Healthcare Support Worker

    3 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Adult Basic Life Support and Automated External Defibrillation

    This topic covers assessing emergency situations, performing CPR, using an AED, and managing an unresponsive casualty who is breathing normally. Learners will develop life-saving skills for adults in cardiac arrest or unconscious states.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in Adult Basic Life Support and Automated External Defibrillation (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Introduction to first aid for mental health

    This subtopic provides the foundational knowledge needed to understand what first aid for mental health is, its aims, and the key principles that govern its practice. It covers the role and responsibilities of a mental health first aider, including the importance of non-judgmental listening, early intervention, and signposting to professional support, while clearly distinguishing it from counselling or therapy. The content emphasises the value of promoting mental wellbeing and creating a supportive culture in the workplace, setting the stage for practical application in real-world settings.

    Highfield Level 2 Award in Introduction to First Aid for Mental Health (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Introduction to mental health, mental ill health and wellbeing

    This element provides foundational knowledge of mental health, distinguishing it from mental ill health, and introducing the mental health continuum. It explores how mental ill health impacts individuals' daily experiences, emphasising the importance of early recognition in the workplace. Learners will also examine practical self-management strategies to maintain personal wellbeing, enabling them to model healthy behaviours as managers.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in Understanding Mental Health in the Workplace for Managers (RQF), Highfield Level 2 Award in Introduction to Mental Health Awareness (RQF) , Highfield Level 2 Award in Introduction to First Aid for Mental Health (RQF)

    3 learning outcomes24 guidance points3 criteria

    Highfield Level 3 End-Point Assessment for ST1377 Optical Assistant - Core Content

    This subtopic covers the core knowledge and skills required for an Optical Assistant at Level 3, focusing on the application of optical principles, customer service, and clinical procedures in practice. It ensures learners can competently assist in the dispensing process, from interpreting prescriptions and fitting frames to providing aftercare advice, while adhering to professional standards and regulations. Mastery of this content is essential for successful completion of the End-Point Assessment.

    Highfield Level 3 End-Point Assessment for ST1377 Optical Assistant

    6 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Understanding Infection Prevention and Control in Health and Care Settings

    This element provides the foundational knowledge required to prevent the spread of infections within health and care environments. Learners explore common pathogens, transmission routes, and the practical application of evidence-based control measures such as hand hygiene, PPE, decontamination, and waste management. Understanding these principles is essential for safeguarding service users, staff, and visitors while meeting legal and regulatory requirements.

    Highfield Level 2 Award in Understanding Infection Prevention and Control in Health and Care Settings (RQF)

    8 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Highfield Level 5 End-Point Assessment for ST0008 Leader in Adult Care - Core Content

    This subtopic encapsulates the essential knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for effective leadership in adult care settings, as assessed through the End-Point Assessment for the Level 5 Leader in Adult Care apprenticeship. It focuses on integrating regulatory compliance, person-centred approaches, professional accountability, and continuous improvement to drive positive outcomes for individuals and service quality.

    Highfield Level 5 End-Point Assessment for ST0008 Leader in Adult Care

    6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Adult Basic Life Support, Automated External Defibrillation and Management of Anaphylaxis

    This subtopic covers the essential skills of adult basic life support, including safe assessment of emergency scenes, management of unresponsive casualties with and without normal breathing, and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs). It also addresses the recognition and immediate management of anaphylaxis, including the administration of adrenaline auto-injectors, emphasizing prompt, effective intervention to preserve life.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in Adult Basic Life Support, Automated External Defibrillation and Management of Anaphylaxis (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Commissioning Together for Outcomes

    This subtopic focuses on the principles of outcomes-based commissioning within health and social care, emphasizing person-centred approaches, integrated service delivery, and coproduction with individuals and communities. It explores how commissioners can shift from traditional service-led models to commissioning for wellbeing outcomes, requiring collaboration across sectors and genuine partnership with service users to design effective, holistic support.

    Highfield Level 5 Certificate in Principles of Commissioning for Wellbeing (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Introduction to autistic spectrum conditions

    This element introduces learners to the core characteristics of autism spectrum conditions (ASC), including the triad of impairments and associated theories such as executive dysfunction and weak central coherence. It explores the diagnostic process, covering diagnostic criteria, multi-disciplinary assessments, and the importance of early identification. Additionally, it examines how autism affects individuals across communication, social interaction, sensory processing, and behaviour, emphasising person-centred approaches to support.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Introduction to Autistic Spectrum Conditions (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF) +1 more

    8 learning outcomes30 guidance points4 criteria

    Forestry First Aid

    This subtopic equips first aiders with critical skills to manage life-threatening incidents in remote forestry settings. It covers environmental emergencies such as hypothermia and heat stroke, catastrophic bleeding, crush injuries, and biological hazards including Lyme disease and adder bites. Learners must apply prompt, evidence-based interventions to stabilise casualties until emergency services arrive, ensuring safety and adherence to current first aid protocols.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in Forestry First Aid (RQF)

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Emergency Paediatric First Aid

    This element covers the immediate and critical care provided to infants and children in emergency situations before professional medical help arrives. It equips learners with the skills to assess scenes safely, manage life-threatening conditions such as unresponsiveness, choking, severe bleeding, and shock, and to deliver appropriate first aid for common minor injuries. Practical application ensures learners can competently respond to real-life paediatric emergencies in various settings, from nurseries to family homes.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Award in Emergency Paediatric First Aid (RQF)

    2 learning outcomes12 guidance points2 criteria

    Manual handling safety at work

    This element focuses on safe manual handling practices specifically within health and social care settings, emphasizing the importance of protecting both the caregiver and the individual being moved. Learners will explore the legal and ethical reasons for safe moving and handling, the role of dynamic risk assessment, and the correct use of equipment such as hoists and slide sheets. Practical application involves demonstrating competent and safe techniques in simulated or real work environments to reduce injury risk and comply with regulations.

    Highfield Level 2 Award in Moving People Safely (RQF), Highfield Level 2 Award in Safe Moving and Handling (RQF)

    7 learning outcomes20 guidance points2 criteria

    Highfield Level 2 Foundation Apprenticeship assessment qualification for FA0007 Health and Social Care - Core Content

    This core content element establishes the foundational knowledge and practical competencies required for effective health and social care practice at Level 2. It focuses on understanding and applying key principles such as person-centred care, confidentiality, and safeguarding within practical care settings. Learners must demonstrate the ability to integrate these principles into their daily interactions, ensuring safe, respectful, and high-quality support for individuals.

    Highfield Level 2 Foundation Apprenticeship assessment qualification for FA0007 Health and Social Care

    3 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Active support: lead interactive training

    This element focuses on equipping leaders with the skills to plan, deliver, and evaluate person-centred interactive training in the context of active support. It emphasises the theoretical underpinnings of active support, such as promoting engagement and choice, and their practical application through in-situ coaching to enhance whole team performance and improve outcomes for individuals receiving care. Effective leadership in interactive training ensures that staff are consistently supported to implement active support principles, leading to meaningful participation and increased independence for those they support.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Emergency First Aid in the Workplace

    This element covers the essential emergency first aid competencies required in the workplace, including understanding the first aider’s role, conducting safe scene assessments, and managing unresponsive casualties, choking, external bleeding, shock, and minor injuries. Learners must demonstrate practical life-saving interventions aligned with current UK Resuscitation Council guidelines, ensuring they can preserve life and prevent deterioration until professional help arrives, thus meeting legal duties under the Health and Safety (First-Aid) Regulations 1981.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Award in Emergency First Aid at Work (RQF)

    2 learning outcomes22 guidance points2 criteria

    Understand how to work in end of life care

    This subtopic explores the multifaceted nature of end of life care, emphasizing the need to respect diverse cultural and personal perspectives on death and dying. It equips learners with knowledge of the underpinning aims, principles, and policies that guide compassionate care, while highlighting effective communication strategies and the importance of signposting individuals to appropriate support services to enhance quality of life.

    Highfield Level 2 Award in Awareness of End of Life Care (RQF)

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Outdoor Emergency Action

    This element equips learners with the fundamental skills to initiate an effective emergency response in outdoor settings, where environmental factors, isolation, and limited resources demand adapted first aid actions. It covers scene assessment, vital sign interpretation, and the management of unresponsive, choking, and bleeding casualties, ensuring learners can confidently lead until professional help arrives. Practical application is central, preparing outdoor professionals to safeguard lives in remote and challenging environments.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in Emergency Outdoor First Aid, Highfield Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (RQF)

    2 learning outcomes20 guidance points2 criteria

    Implementing technology in adult social care

    This element equips learners with the knowledge to strategically plan, evaluate, and integrate digital technologies within adult care environments, covering assessment of needs, feasibility, and stakeholder engagement. It explores how external partnerships with technology providers, regulatory bodies, and other agencies shape the successful implementation and sustained use of tech solutions, emphasizing the critical role of collaborative working and compliance in digital transformation across care settings.

    Highfield Level 5 Award in Understanding Digital Leadership in Adult Social Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Basic Life Support and Automated External Defibrillation for Adults, Children and Infants in Clinical Practice

    This subtopic focuses on the practical application of basic life support and automated external defibrillation for casualties of all ages within clinical environments. Learners will develop the competence to safely assess emergency situations, deliver high-quality CPR, correctly operate an AED, and manage unresponsive casualties who are breathing normally, all in accordance with Resuscitation Council (UK) guidelines. Mastery of these skills is essential for healthcare professionals to respond promptly and effectively to life-threatening emergencies in clinical practice.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in Basic Life Support and Automated External Defibrillation for Adults, Children and Infants (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Highfield Level 5 End-point Assessment for ST0215 Healthcare Assistant Practitioner - Core Content

    This subtopic covers the fundamental knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours required for the Healthcare Assistant Practitioner role, integrating theoretical principles with practical application in diverse health and care settings. The end-point assessment evaluates the apprentice's ability to deliver safe, person-centred care while adhering to legislative and regulatory standards.

    Highfield Level 5 End-point Assessment for ST0215 Healthcare Assistant Practitioner

    6 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Basic Life Support for Adults, Children and Infants in Clinical Practice

    This subtopic covers the essential skills for assessing emergency scenes and providing immediate life support to unresponsive casualties across all age groups. It includes the recognition of respiratory emergencies, the application of CPR and AED use for non-breathing patients, management of breathing unconscious patients, and relief of choking. Learners must demonstrate competence in adapting techniques for adults, children, and infants in a clinical setting.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in Basic Life Support for Adults, Children and Infants in Clinical Practice (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Applying for a Job

    This element equips learners with the knowledge to identify and utilise various job application methods commonly used in health and social care settings, such as online portals, paper forms, and CV submission. It also develops practical skills in accurately completing a job application form, emphasising the importance of presenting personal information and relevant attributes clearly to meet employer expectations.

    Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    3 learning outcomes24 guidance points3 criteria

    Introduction to therapeutic communication and helping skills when supporting those with mental ill-health

    This subtopic equips learners with foundational knowledge of therapeutic communication techniques essential for supporting individuals with mental ill-health. It covers proactive preparation for mental health conversations, including creating a safe environment and considering the individual's needs, as well as practical engagement strategies such as active listening, empathy, and non-judgmental questioning. Mastery of these skills enables effective, person-centred support in health and social care settings.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Administer medication to individuals and monitor the effects

    This subtopic covers the safe administration of medication in care settings, focusing on legal and ethical frameworks, medication types, administration techniques, and monitoring for side effects. Learners will develop competence in preparing and administering medication while adhering to policies and ensuring individual-centred care.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    7 learning outcomes20 guidance points2 criteria

    Highfield Level 3 End-Point Assessment for ST0550 Safety, Health and Environment Technician - Core Content

    This subtopic covers the essential knowledge and skills required for a Safety, Health and Environment Technician, including legal frameworks, hazard identification, risk assessment, incident investigation, and environmental protection. It emphasises practical application in monitoring workplace safety, conducting audits, and promoting a positive safety culture within health and social care settings. Learners will develop competency in applying control measures, communicating findings, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.

    Highfield Level 3 End-Point Assessment for ST0550 Safety, Health and Environment Technician

    7 learning outcomes12 guidance points

    Basic Life Support, Automated External Defibrillation and Management of Anaphylaxis for Adults, Children and Infants

    This unit equips learners with the essential skills to safely assess emergency situations and deliver immediate life-saving interventions, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), use of an automated external defibrillator (AED), and management of anaphylaxis for casualties across all age groups. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining scene safety, recognizing signs of normal and abnormal breathing, and administering appropriate first aid to unresponsive individuals, ensuring learners can confidently respond in real-world emergencies.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in Basic Life Support, Automated External Defibrillation and Management of Anaphylaxis for Adults, Children and Infants (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Communication and Information Management in Adult Care

    This element explores how effective communication underpins leadership and management in adult care, focusing on models, barriers, and strategies to enhance team performance and service user outcomes. It also examines robust information management systems, including record-keeping, data protection, and governance, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks. Learners will understand the principles of secure and appropriate information sharing to support integrated, person-centred care and multi-agency collaboration.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Introduction to mental health, mental ill health and wellbeing

    This element introduces learners to fundamental definitions of mental health and mental ill health, distinguishing between positive wellbeing and the spectrum of mental illness. It equips learners with practical strategies for self-care and supportive actions towards others, while signposting to formal and informal support networks. Mastery of this foundation enables individuals to recognise early signs, reduce stigma, and foster resilience in personal and community contexts.

    Highfield Level 1 Award in an Introduction to Mental Health and Wellbeing (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Basic Life Support and Using an Automated External Defribrillator

    This element develops the competency to manage an unresponsive casualty by assessing normal and abnormal breathing, performing recovery positioning or CPR, and safely deploying an automated external defibrillator (AED). Learners must integrate current Resuscitation Council (UK) protocols into practical skills, ensuring timely and effective interventions in life-threatening emergencies.

    Highfield Level 2 Award in Basic Life Support and Safe Use of an Automated External Defibrillator (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Appraise staff performance

    This subtopic explores the formal process of evaluating staff work quality, identifying strengths, and areas for improvement in adult care settings. It delves into underpinning theories such as goal-setting and feedback models, while emphasizing the practical skills needed to facilitate constructive appraisal meetings that drive professional development and service quality. Mastery involves not only applying policies but also supporting appraisees through preparation and active participation.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Highfield Level 3 End-Point Assessment for ST0006 Lead Adult Care Worker - Core Content

    This element covers the essential knowledge, skills, and behaviours required by a Lead Adult Care Worker, including implementing person-centred care, promoting dignity and respect, and leading by example in health and social care settings. It addresses safeguarding, effective communication, equality and inclusion, and the duty of care, ensuring competence in supervising others and managing complex care situations within legal and ethical frameworks.

    Highfield Level 3 End-Point Assessment for ST0006 Lead Adult Care Worker

    6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Adapt and fit healthcare equipment, medical devices, assistive technology, or products, to meet individuals’ needs

    This subtopic focuses on the practical skills and underpinning knowledge required for healthcare support workers to safely adapt and fit prescribed healthcare equipment, medical devices, and assistive technology to meet individual patient needs. Learners will explore relevant legislation, anatomical considerations, technical specifications, and person-centred approaches to ensure equipment is tailored correctly, promoting independence and well-being. This competency is vital for delivering effective support in clinical and community settings.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Highfield Level 4 End-Point Assessment for ST0088 Children, Young People and Families Practitioner - Core Content

    This subtopic forms the foundational core content for the Level 4 Children, Young People and Families Practitioner end-point assessment, integrating essential knowledge and skills required for competent practice. It covers the legislative frameworks, child development theories, and communication strategies underpinning effective multi-agency support, enabling practitioners to apply evidence-based interventions in real-world settings. Mastery of this content ensures candidates can demonstrate professional judgement, safeguard individuals, and promote positive outcomes for children and families.

    Highfield Level 4 End-Point Assessment for ST0088 Children, Young People and Families Practitioner

    6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Principles for implementing duty of care in health, social care or children’s and young people’s settings

    This subtopic examines the core principles underpinning the legal and ethical concept of duty of care within adult social care environments. It emphasises the professional responsibility to protect service users from harm while respecting their autonomy and rights, requiring practitioners to navigate complex situations where safety and individual choice may conflict. Learners will explore established frameworks for ethical decision-making and formal procedures for addressing complaints, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement in care provision.

    Highfield Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care (RQF)

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Awareness of Mental Health and Dementia

    This element explores the experiences and needs of individuals with mental health conditions or dementia, emphasizing the importance of early identification to enable timely support. It covers person-centred care planning, reasonable adjustments in service delivery, and the legal frameworks that uphold rights such as the Mental Capacity Act and the Care Act 2014. Understanding these aspects ensures that care workers can promote dignity, autonomy, and wellbeing in their practice.

    Highfield Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Develop an Awareness of Substance Misuse

    This subtopic introduces learners to the foundational concepts of substance misuse awareness, covering the types of substances commonly misused, the underlying reasons for their use, and the key physical, behavioural, and psychological signs. It examines the broad social and personal consequences, while also exploring public perceptions and professional responses, building essential knowledge for those entering health and social care environments.

    Highfield Level 1 Award In Substance Misuse Awareness (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Health and Safety within Health and Social Care

    This subtopic equips learners with essential knowledge of health and safety legislation, roles, and responsibilities within health and social care settings. It covers the systematic process of risk assessment to identify and control hazards, ensuring the welfare of service users and workers. Practical application includes understanding how to respond to accidents and near misses, and implementing infection prevention and control measures in line with regulatory standards.

    Highfield Level 2 Award in Health and Safety within Health and Social Care Settings (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Highfield Level 2 End-Point Assessment for ST0530 Optical Assistant - Core Content

    The core content for the Optical Assistant end-point assessment encompasses the essential knowledge, skills, and behaviours required to support optometrists and dispensing opticians in optical practice. This includes understanding common eye conditions, interpreting prescriptions, conducting pre-screening tests, maintaining equipment, and providing high-quality customer service, all within legal and ethical frameworks.

    Highfield Level 2 End-Point Assessment for ST0530 Optical Assistant

    8 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Highfield Level 4 End-Point Assessment for ST0007 Lead Practitioner in Adult Care - Core Content

    The core content of the Lead Practitioner in Adult Care apprenticeship equips candidates with the advanced knowledge and skills needed to lead and manage complex care provision. It integrates professional values, person-centred practice, safeguarding, quality assurance, and leadership within legislative frameworks, ensuring practitioners can drive service improvement and support individuals to achieve meaningful outcomes.

    Highfield Level 4 End-Point Assessment for ST0007 Lead Practitioner in Adult Care

    6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Highfield Level 5 End-Point Assessment for ST0087 Children, Young People and Families Manager - Core Content

    This element covers the core knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for a Children, Young People and Families Manager at Level 5, as defined by the ST0087 apprenticeship standard. It encompasses the legislative, theoretical, and practical underpinnings essential for leading services that support vulnerable children, young people, and their families. The end-point assessment will evaluate the apprentice's ability to integrate this core content into competent, ethical, and person-centred management practice.

    Highfield Level 5 End-Point Assessment for ST0087 Children, Young People and Families Manager

    6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Introductory principles of safeguarding individuals

    This element covers the fundamental principles of safeguarding, emphasizing the duty to protect individuals' health, wellbeing, and human rights. It explores key concepts such as recognizing abuse, understanding risk factors, and knowing how to respond appropriately. Learners gain essential knowledge to promote a safer environment and fulfil their role in protecting vulnerable individuals in health and social care settings.

    Highfield Level 1 Award in Introductory Principles of Safeguarding Individuals (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Adult Basic Life Support and Management of Anaphylaxis in Clinical Practice

    This unit equips learners with the essential skills to manage life-threatening emergencies in clinical practice, focusing on adult basic life support, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the management of anaphylaxis and choking. It emphasises the systematic approach to assessing and responding to unresponsive casualties, ensuring adherence to current UK Resuscitation Council guidelines, and highlights the critical role of early intervention and effective teamwork in improving patient outcomes.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in in Adult Basic Life Support and Management of Anaphylaxis in Clinical Practice (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Introduction to safeguarding and protecting children or young people

    This element introduces the fundamental principles of safeguarding and protecting children and young people, outlining the legal frameworks and workplace policies that underpin safe practice. It equips learners with essential knowledge on identifying and responding to signs of abuse, ensuring the welfare of children and the safety of practitioners in various care settings.

    Highfield Level 2 Award In Safeguarding and Protecting Children and Young People (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Introduction to duty of care in health, social care or children’s and young people’s settings

    This subtopic introduces the legal and ethical concept of duty of care within adult social care, outlining its implications for promoting wellbeing, safeguarding individuals, and balancing their rights with safety. Learners will explore how to identify dilemmas, access support, and follow formal complaints procedures to uphold professional standards and continuously improve care quality.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF) +1 more

    14 learning outcomes29 guidance points4 criteria

    Highfield Level 2 End-Point Assessment for ST0005 Adult Care Worker - Core Content

    This subtopic covers the essential knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for the Adult Care Worker End-Point Assessment. It outlines how candidates demonstrate competence in providing person-centred care, safeguarding individuals, and adhering to professional standards in real-world care settings. The core content underpins all assessment methods, ensuring apprentices can apply theory to practice and meet the industry benchmark for entry into the adult care workforce.

    Highfield Level 2 End-Point Assessment for ST0005 Adult Care Worker

    6 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Introduction to medication types and processes

    This element introduces learners to the fundamental categories of medication, their therapeutic purposes, and the key processes involved in safe medication handling and administration within care settings. It establishes the foundation for understanding how medications are prescribed, dispensed, administered, and documented, emphasizing the critical role of accuracy, legal compliance, and person-centred approaches.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Medication Handling and Administration for Care Settings (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Adult Basic Life Support in Clinical Practice

    This subtopic focuses on the critical skills required to manage adult casualties in clinical practice, covering the systematic assessment of emergency situations, the provision of immediate basic life support to unresponsive individuals who are either breathing normally or not, and the management of choking. Mastery of these competencies ensures healthcare professionals can promptly and safely intervene in life-threatening incidents, adhering to current UK Resuscitation Council guidelines.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in Adult Basic Life Support in Clinical Practice (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Highfield Level 2 End-point Assessment for ST0216 Healthcare Support Worker - Core Content

    This element covers the core knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for the Healthcare Support Worker apprenticeship end-point assessment. It ensures candidates can demonstrate competence in delivering safe, compassionate care across a range of clinical and non-clinical tasks while adhering to professional standards and regulatory requirements.

    Highfield Level 2 End-point Assessment for ST0216 Healthcare Support Worker

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Understand health and wellbeing

    This element explores the holistic concept of health and wellbeing, covering physical fitness, substance misuse awareness, sexual health, mental health, financial literacy, work-life balance, personal development, and safety. Learners gain foundational knowledge to recognise the importance of these areas in daily life and to identify appropriate support services. The content is designed to promote informed decision-making and self-care, essential for personal and professional contexts in health and social care.

    Highfield Level 1 Award in Health and Wellbeing (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Highfield Level 3 End-Point Assessment for ST1030 Safeguarding Support Officer - Core Content

    This subtopic covers the essential safeguarding responsibilities of a Support Officer, including understanding legal frameworks, identifying signs of abuse, and applying person-centred approaches. It equips learners to effectively contribute to multi-agency safeguarding processes and maintain accurate records, ensuring compliance with organisational policies and national standards.

    Highfield Level 3 End-Point Assessment for ST1030 Safeguarding Support Officer

    6 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    Community responses to substance misuse

    This subtopic explores the proactive strategies communities can employ to mitigate substance misuse-related crime and antisocial behaviour, emphasizing collaborative approaches between residents, service providers, and enforcement agencies. Learners will examine how effective partnership working, community engagement, and targeted interventions can create safer environments and support those affected by substance misuse.

    Highfield Level 2 Award In Substance Misuse (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Introduction to equality, diversity and inclusion

    This subtopic provides the foundational knowledge of equality, diversity and inclusion within health and social care settings. It explores key concepts such as equality of opportunity, valuing individual differences, and creating inclusive environments where all individuals feel respected and valued. Learners will also examine the impact of labelling, stereotyping, prejudice, discrimination and oppression on identity, equipping them to promote rights and person-centred care.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Equality, Diversity and Rights in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Emergency Care for First Responders

    This unit equips first responders with the essential knowledge and practical skills to deliver immediate, life-saving care in pre-hospital emergency settings. It covers the entire continuum of casualty management, from dynamic scene assessment and rapid triage to advanced interventions such as airway management, oxygen therapy, and control of catastrophic haemorrhage, always operating within a defined scope of practice and legal framework.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in Emergency Care for First Responders (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes16 guidance points

    Prevention and control of infection for the workplace

    This element introduces learners to the fundamental principles of infection prevention and control within a workplace setting, covering common pathogens, standard precautions like hand hygiene and PPE, safe waste management, and the collective responsibility for safeguarding health. Mastery of these practices is essential to minimize the risk of healthcare-associated infections and ensure compliance with legal and regulatory standards such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002. It equips learners with the knowledge to implement effective infection control measures in diverse work environments, particularly in health and social care contexts.

    Highfield Level 2 Award in the Prevention and Control of Infection for the Workplace (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Dementia Awareness

    This subtopic provides foundational knowledge on dementia, defining it as a progressive syndrome affecting cognitive function beyond normal aging. It explores theoretical models, including the medical model focusing on pathology and the social model emphasising personhood and environment. Learners will identify common types such as Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and dementia with Lewy bodies, and understand how factors like communication, relationships, and life history shape the individual's lived experience, essential for person-centred care.

    Highfield Level 2 Award in Awareness of Dementia (RQF), Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF) +3 more

    9 learning outcomes49 guidance points6 criteria

    The Principles of Duty of Care in Adult Social Care Settings

    This unit explores duty of care and candour in adult social care, including handling dilemmas, complaints, incidents, and difficult situations. Learners develop skills to respond appropriately.

    Highfield Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Health and Safety in children’s services and adult health and social care settings

    This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental principles of health and safety within health, social care, and children's settings. It covers the key roles and responsibilities involved, common hazards and preventative measures, and the correct procedures for responding to accidents, near misses, and ill-health, ensuring a safe environment for service users and staff.

    Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    7 learning outcomes22 guidance points3 criteria

    Introduction to self-harm and self-neglect

    This unit introduces learners to the complex issues of self-harm and self-neglect, focusing on understanding their emotional, physical, and social consequences. It develops the skills to identify warning signs in individuals and outlines the correct procedures for providing immediate support while adhering to safeguarding protocols. The knowledge gained is essential for promoting recovery and safety within mental health settings.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Contribute to effective team working in health and social care settings

    This element focuses on enabling learners to understand and apply key teamwork theories (such as Tuckman's stages and Belbin's team roles) within adult care settings. It emphasises the practical principles of effective communication, mutual support, and collaborative problem-solving to enhance service delivery. Learners must demonstrate the ability to actively contribute to a team, support colleagues, and critically review team performance against agreed objectives.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Assist in the administration of oxygen

    This element focuses on the safe and effective assistance in the administration of oxygen within healthcare settings. It covers the essential knowledge of organisational policies, respiratory conditions requiring oxygen therapy, potential adverse effects, and the correct use of monitoring equipment. Practical competence involves accurate recording of oxygen saturation levels and supporting individuals during oxygen administration, ensuring holistic and person-centred care.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Contribute to supporting group care activities

    This subtopic focuses on the care worker's role in facilitating group activities within care settings, ensuring they are person-centred, promote social inclusion, and contribute to individuals' overall well-being. Learners will explore how to develop a supportive group culture, implement activities safely and effectively, and evaluate their impact to continually improve the quality of care provided.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Explore models of disability

    This subtopic examines the key theoretical models of disability, including the medical, social, and biopsychosocial frameworks, and their profound impact on service design and delivery in adult care settings. Learners critically analyse how these models shape organisational culture, policies, and the empowerment of individuals, while developing strategies to promote a rights-based, inclusive approach among teams.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Manage Self for Leadership in Adult Care

    This element focuses on the leader's ability to manage themselves effectively within an adult care setting. It covers developing self-awareness to understand personal impact, regulating behaviour to model professionalism, prioritizing workload to meet service demands, embodying organisational vision and values, and pursuing continuous professional development to enhance leadership practice.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF), Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    3 learning outcomes27 guidance points3 criteria

    Facilitate person centred assessment to support wellbeing

    This element focuses on applying person-centred assessment approaches to promote individual wellbeing within adult care settings. It integrates theoretical models of assessment with collaborative practice, empowering individuals and their support networks to actively participate in identifying needs, strengths, and outcomes. Learners develop skills to conduct holistic, partnership-based assessments that respect the uniqueness of each person and directly inform care planning.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Interview Skills

    This element develops learners' practical ability to secure roles in health and social care or children's settings by preparing effectively for interviews, delivering structured responses that demonstrate suitability, and critically evaluating their own performance to identify areas for improvement. Mastery of these skills is essential for progression to further study or employment where communication and self-awareness directly impact care quality.

    Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    7 learning outcomes20 guidance points3 criteria

    The Principles of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC)

    This element equips care workers with essential knowledge and skills to break the chain of infection in adult social care settings. It covers the modes of transmission, the body’s defence mechanisms, and practical measures including standard precautions, effective hand hygiene, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and safe management of waste and soiled linen. Application ensures the safety and wellbeing of individuals receiving care, staff, and visitors by embedding infection prevention and control as a continuous professional responsibility.

    Highfield Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Contribute to raising awareness of health issues

    This element focuses on the role of adult care workers in identifying health issues and contributing to awareness campaigns. It covers recognising needs, understanding influencing factors, assisting in planning and implementing activities, and evaluating outcomes. Practical application involves collaborating with individuals and communities to promote health literacy and positive lifestyle changes within care settings.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Contribute to supporting individuals in the use of assistive technology

    This subtopic focuses on the role of care workers in facilitating the use of assistive technology to enhance independence, safety, and well-being. It covers the variety of devices and systems available, their purposes, and the practical skills needed to support individuals in selecting, using, and maintaining them. Understanding how to assess individual needs, promote dignity, and troubleshoot common issues is essential for effective contribution.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Facilitate change in health and social care settings

    This subtopic equips leaders with the skills to drive and manage change effectively within adult care environments, ensuring improvements in service delivery and outcomes. It focuses on applying structured change models like Kotter's 8-Step Process, engaging stakeholders including service users, staff, and regulatory bodies to build a shared vision, and systematically planning, implementing, and evaluating changes in line with legislative and quality standards.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Managing Concerns and Complaints in Adult Care

    Effective management of concerns and complaints in adult care involves establishing robust, person-centred systems that comply with regulatory standards and organisational policies. Leaders must foster an open and transparent culture where feedback is valued, ensuring concerns are handled promptly, fairly, and used to drive continuous improvement in care quality and safety.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Facilitate support planning to ensure positive outcomes for Individuals and to support wellbeing

    This element focuses on the practical application of outcomes-based practice in adult care, requiring learners to develop, implement, and review support plans in active partnership with individuals and other stakeholders. It integrates key theories such as person-centred approaches and the social model of disability, and recognises the role of assistive living technology in promoting independence and wellbeing. The overall aim is to ensure that support is tailored to individual needs and preferences, leading to measurable positive outcomes.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Introduction to stress and anxiety

    This element introduces the fundamental concepts of stress and anxiety, distinguishing between everyday stress responses and clinical anxiety disorders. It explores the physiological, psychological, and behavioural impacts on individuals, linking theoretical models to real-world care scenarios. Learners examine evidence-based management strategies, including self-help techniques and professional interventions, to support mental well-being.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Assist in the delivery of perioperative care and support to individuals

    This element focuses on the crucial role of the healthcare support worker in assisting with perioperative care, covering the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases. It emphasises understanding how the surgical environment and procedures impact individuals physically and psychologically, and the importance of individualised care planning and monitoring to ensure safe and effective support throughout the surgical journey.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Facilitate coaching and mentoring of practitioners in health and social care settings

    This element explores how leaders in adult care can systematically facilitate coaching and mentoring to enhance practitioner competence, confidence, and service quality. It covers establishing a culture that values these developmental relationships, accurately diagnosing individual learning needs, designing and delivering appropriate activities, and rigorously evaluating their impact on practice and outcomes for individuals receiving care.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Outcomes Based Person Centred Practice in Adult Care

    This subtopic explores the principles of outcomes-based and person-centred practice within adult care settings, emphasizing the shift from task-focused service delivery to tailored support that prioritizes individual aspirations, well-being, and control. It critically examines how effective leadership can embed these practices across teams, ensuring care planning, risk management, and review processes consistently drive meaningful, personalized outcomes for individuals. The content links directly to legislative frameworks such as the Care Act 2014 and regulatory standards, highlighting the leader's role in fostering a culture that values each person's unique definition of a good life.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    The Principles of Privacy and Dignity in Adult Social Care Settings

    This element focuses on the fundamental principles of privacy, dignity, choice, and active participation in adult social care. Learners will explore how to uphold an individual's right to privacy and dignity in everyday care practices, support individuals to make informed choices about their care, and promote active involvement in their own support. The practical application of these principles ensures person-centred care that respects the autonomy and preferences of individuals, fostering a culture of empowerment and respect within care settings.

    Highfield Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Coordination of Activity Provision in Social Care

    This element focuses on the coordination of meaningful activities within adult care settings, emphasising a person-centred approach that enhances well-being and quality of life. Learners must demonstrate the ability to plan, implement, and evaluate activity provision by involving individuals, families, and multi-disciplinary teams, while managing budgets and selecting appropriate venues. The ultimate goal is to ensure activities are inclusive, stimulating, and aligned with assessed needs and preferences.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Assist in the implementation of programmes to increase mobility, movement and functional independence

    This element focuses on the healthcare support worker's role in assisting with mobility and independence programmes under the direction of registered practitioners. Learners must demonstrate knowledge of relevant legislation, health conditions, and therapeutic approaches, as well as competence in practical assistance, equipment use, accurate record-keeping, and effective communication within the multi-disciplinary team.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Contribute to supporting individuals with a learning disability to access healthcare

    This element focuses on equipping care workers with the knowledge and skills to support individuals with learning disabilities in navigating healthcare systems. It covers essential legislation like the Mental Capacity Act, Equality Act, and NHS policies promoting accessible services, alongside understanding the roles of GPs, specialists, and community health teams. Learners will explore how person-centred healthcare plans and regular health checks are vital for detecting and managing health conditions early, ensuring long-term wellbeing.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Introduction to substance misuse

    This element introduces the fundamental concepts of substance misuse, including definitions, commonly misused substances, and their physical, psychological and social impacts on individuals. It also explores the key principles and approaches to managing substance misuse, such as assessment, referral pathways and evidence-based interventions, preparing learners to recognise signs and support individuals in a health and social care context.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Facilitate the development of effective group practice in health and social care or children and young people’s settings

    This element focuses on the practitioner's ability to understand group dynamics and developmental stages, and to apply facilitation skills that create a positive climate, manage power and influence constructively, and critically review group outcomes. It equips learners with strategies to lead and support effective teamwork and collaborative practice in care settings, ensuring service user needs are met through cohesive, reflective group processes.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Governance in Adult Care

    This element explores how adult care services are shaped by legislation such as the Care Act 2014 and regulated by bodies like the Care Quality Commission. It examines the policies and statutory duties that underpin safe, effective, and person-centred care. Learners will understand internal governance structures—including boards, committees, and management systems—that ensure accountability, manage risk, and drive quality improvement within care organisations.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF), Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    2 learning outcomes16 guidance points2 criteria

    Introduction to supporting mental ill-health in adults with learning disabilities

    This element introduces the fundamental principles of supporting adults with learning disabilities who experience mental ill-health, emphasizing person-centred approaches, communication adaptations, and collaborative care. It explores how to recognize signs of mental distress within this population and the importance of tailored interventions that respect individual autonomy and dignity. Practical application includes building supportive environments and understanding the intersection between learning disability and mental health to promote well-being and recovery.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Contribute to the care of a deceased person

    This element focuses on the sensitive and practical aspects of care after death within health and social care settings. Learners will develop knowledge of cultural, religious, and legal factors influencing care, and demonstrate competence in supporting loved ones, preparing the body respectfully, and managing personal emotions. The practical application ensures dignity, safety, and adherence to organisational policies during a challenging time.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    2 learning outcomes17 guidance points2 criteria

    Partnership Working in Adult Care

    This element explores the principles and practices of effective partnership working in adult care settings, emphasizing collaboration with external agencies, professionals, and families to achieve holistic, person-centred outcomes. It critically examines co-production approaches that empower individuals and integrate their expertise with professional knowledge, ultimately enhancing service delivery and safeguarding practices.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Introduction to communication in children’s services and adult social care settings

    This element introduces the essential forms of communication used in health, social care, and children’s settings, including verbal, non-verbal, and written methods. It underpins the ability to interact effectively with individuals, colleagues, and families in line with care standards and person-centred approaches. Mastering these basics is critical for ensuring clear, respectful, and accurate information exchange in care environments.

    Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    8 learning outcomes18 guidance points3 criteria

    Develop and sustain effective working relationships with staff in other agencies

    This subtopic focuses on the principles and practical skills required to establish, develop, and sustain collaborative partnerships with professionals from other agencies in adult care settings. It explores the contextual factors underpinning partnership working, such as shared goals, legal frameworks, and the importance of clear communication, to ensure seamless and person-centered care delivery. Learners will gain insight into strategies for overcoming barriers and maintaining professional relationships that enhance integrated working and positive outcomes for individuals receiving care.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Identify and act upon immediate risk of danger to substance misusers

    This subtopic focuses on equipping leaders in adult care with the competence to promptly recognise and respond to life-threatening situations involving substance misusers, such as overdose, severe intoxication, or withdrawal emergencies. It emphasises the practical application of risk assessment, immediate first aid, safeguarding procedures, and legal compliance within a care setting, ensuring the safety of the individual, staff, and others while maintaining dignity and effective communication.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England) , Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    3 learning outcomes26 guidance points3 criteria

    The Principles of Understanding Own Role

    This subtopic focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of one's own role, responsibilities, and boundaries within the adult social care sector. It ensures that care workers operate within agreed ways of working, fostering effective professional relationships and collaborative partnerships to deliver person-centred care. Mastery of these principles is essential for maintaining safety, accountability, and quality of service in line with legal and regulatory frameworks.

    Highfield Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Assist others to plan presentations

    This element focuses on the skills required to support individuals in planning and preparing presentations within a health and social care context. It covers identifying appropriate techniques and resources to meet the communicator's needs, ensuring the presentation effectively conveys key messages to its intended audience. The ability to assist others in this process is crucial for promoting person-centred communication and enabling active participation in care planning, team meetings, or educational sessions.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Assist the practitioner to carry out health care activities

    This unit covers legislation and good practice when assisting a practitioner with healthcare activities. Learners must understand guidelines and be able to assist safely and effectively.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF), Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    2 learning outcomes12 guidance points2 criteria

    Introduction to diversity, equality and inclusion in children’s services and adult social care settings

    This subtopic introduces the fundamental principles of diversity, equality, and inclusion within children’s and adult social care settings. It explores how these values combat discrimination, promote individual well-being, and ensure fair access to services. Learners will examine the detrimental effects of discrimination and the key factors that enable or hinder inclusive practice in real-world care environments.

    Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    7 learning outcomes23 guidance points3 criteria

    Professional Development in Adult Care

    This element explores the concept of professional development as a continuous process essential for maintaining high standards in adult care leadership and management. It examines how reflective practice, supervision, and formal learning contribute to personal and team growth, while also emphasizing the critical role of functional skills—literacy, numeracy, and digital competence—in safe, effective, and person-centred care delivery.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes10 guidance points2 criteria

    Develop professional supervision practice in health and social care settings

    This element focuses on developing the knowledge and skills required to conduct effective professional supervision within adult care settings. It covers the theoretical underpinnings of supervision as a mechanism for support, quality assurance, and professional development, alongside its practical application in performance management. Learners explore how to prepare for, deliver, and evaluate supervision sessions, including strategies for constructively resolving conflicts that may arise.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Introduction to supporting mental ill-health in children and young people

    This element introduces the principles of supporting children and young people experiencing mental ill-health, focusing on early recognition, person-centred approaches, and the role of multi-agency collaboration. It also covers sources of specialist support, ensuring learners know how to signpost children, young people and adults with co-occurring learning disabilities to appropriate services, promoting inclusive mental health care.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Independent Mental Capacity Advocacy

    This subtopic explores the statutory role of the Independent Mental Capacity Advocate (IMCA) under the Mental Capacity Act 2005, focusing on safeguarding the rights of people who lack capacity to make specific decisions. It covers the practical application of advocacy in serious medical treatment, accommodation and care reviews, and adult protection referrals, emphasizing collaboration with decision-makers and the production of statutory reports.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Understand Learning Disability and Autism

    This element explores the distinct needs, experiences, and rights of individuals with learning disabilities and autistic people, emphasising person-centred approaches in adult social care. Learners examine effective communication strategies, the implementation of reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act 2010, and the role of key legislation and guidance in promoting inclusion and safeguarding. Mastery ensures care workers can deliver equitable, dignified support tailored to individual strengths and preferences.

    Highfield Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Contribute to the effectiveness of teams

    This element focuses on the individual's role within a care team, emphasising understanding one's contributions to team performance, self-reflection, time management, and building effective working relationships. Learners develop the skills to support team goals, improve personal practice, and maintain collaborative professional interactions to enhance service delivery.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    2 learning outcomes16 guidance points2 criteria

    Diabetes Awareness

    This element focuses on developing comprehensive awareness of diabetes within adult care settings, covering the recognition of types and causes, the associated health implications, and the implementation of person-centred support strategies. It emphasises the critical role of nutritional management, understanding individuals' lived experiences, and the importance of consistent monitoring to prevent complications and promote wellbeing.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England), Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    2 learning outcomes15 guidance points2 criteria

    Identify the physical health needs of individuals with mental health needs and plan appropriate actions

    This element focuses on the integrated care approach required to identify and address the physical health needs of adults with mental health conditions in care settings. It equips learners with the skills to conduct holistic assessments, recognize comorbidities, and plan person-centred interventions that bridge the gap between physical and mental health services. Effective practice ensures individuals receive comprehensive care that promotes overall wellbeing and reduces health inequalities.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes17 guidance points2 criteria

    Contribute to the support of individuals with multiple conditions and/or disabilities

    This element focuses on understanding the complex interplay of multiple conditions and disabilities on an individual's daily living, and the role of a care worker in providing person-centred support. It covers knowing available support services and evaluating one's own contribution to assisting individuals with activities, ensuring dignity and promoting independence.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Regulatory Processes for Adult Care

    This subtopic examines the statutory and voluntary frameworks governing adult care services in England, focusing on the roles of regulators like the Care Quality Commission (CQC). It equips learners with the knowledge to navigate mandatory registration, inspection schedules, and compliance with legislation such as the Health and Social Care Act 2008, ensuring safe, effective, and person-centred care delivery.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Understand the Principles of Safeguarding Children

    This element focuses on the fundamental principles that underpin safeguarding children within an adult social care context. Learners must understand the legal and regulatory framework, including the Children Act 1989 and 2004, as well as their duty of care to identify and respond to concerns of child abuse or neglect. It emphasises the importance of multi-agency working and the need to balance confidentiality with the priority of child protection.

    Highfield Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Awareness of mental health legislation

    This element explores the legislative framework governing mental health care in the UK, including the Mental Health Act and Mental Capacity Act. It emphasises the legal and ethical responsibilities of healthcare support workers when working with individuals who may lack capacity or require restraint. Understanding these laws ensures safe, person-centred practice and safeguards the rights of individuals.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Independent Mental Health Advocacy

    This element explores the statutory role and functions of an Independent Mental Health Advocate (IMHA) under the Mental Health Act 1983 (as amended), focusing on how the legislation impacts qualifying patients. It covers the practical aspects of providing advocacy, responding to requests, engaging with professionals, addressing diverse needs, and ensuring safe working practices within adult care leadership and management contexts.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Care for a newborn baby

    This subtopic equips healthcare support workers with the essential knowledge and skills to provide safe, holistic care for newborn babies in clinical or community settings. It integrates current legislation, national guidelines, and evidence-based practices to address physical, social, emotional, and developmental needs, while emphasizing the practical competencies of feeding, bathing, and clothing newborns. Mastery of this element ensures compliance with organizational policies and promotes optimal infant wellbeing.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Contribute to the support of infection prevention and control in social care

    This element focuses on the practical application of infection prevention and control measures essential in social care settings. Learners must demonstrate an understanding of policies and guidelines, and actively contribute to minimising infection risks through personal hygiene, environmental cleanliness, and adherence to workplace protocols.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes14 guidance points

    Introduction to mental health awareness

    This subtopic introduces learners to the fundamental concepts of mental health and wellbeing within health and social care settings, emphasizing the importance of recognising mental health as a continuum that affects individuals' daily functioning. It explores practical strategies for promoting positive mental health and preventing mental ill health through early intervention and supportive relationships, aligning with the holistic care philosophy central to the Level 1 qualification.

    Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    7 learning outcomes20 guidance points3 criteria

    Information Management for Leaders of Adult Social Care Services

    Information management in adult social care leadership involves the systematic handling of data and records to support high-quality care, regulatory compliance, and effective decision-making. It requires leaders to establish robust systems for capturing, storing, sharing, and protecting sensitive information, ensuring alignment with legislation such as the Data Protection Act 2018 and the Caldicott Principles, while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Effective Handling of Information in Care Settings

    Effective handling of information in adult care settings involves complying with data protection legislation, maintaining confidentiality, and ensuring secure recording, storage, and sharing of personal information. It requires understanding legal and regulatory requirements, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the principles of the Care Act 2014, and applying them in daily practice to protect individuals’ rights, dignity, and safety. Practical application includes accurate record-keeping, justifying information sharing on a need-to-know basis, and fostering a culture of trust and transparency within the care team.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Resource Management in Adult Care

    Resource management in adult care involves the strategic planning, allocation, and monitoring of financial, human, and physical assets to deliver person-centred services that meet regulatory standards and achieve positive outcomes. Effective resource management requires leaders to balance budgetary constraints with the need for safe staffing levels, appropriate equipment, and sustainable care provisions, while continuously evaluating the impact on service quality and continuity. This element focuses on equipping managers with the skills to analyse resource-related issues, manage finances, and address human resource challenges including recruitment and retention, ensuring that service delivery remains robust, compliant, and responsive to the needs of individuals and communities.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Implement the positive behavioural support model

    This element focuses on the practical application of the Positive Behavioural Support (PBS) model in adult care settings. It equips learners to understand challenging behaviour in context, conduct functional analyses, and develop person-centred strategies that promote positive outcomes while minimising restrictive practices. Mastery involves implementing primary, secondary, and non-aversive reactive strategies within comprehensive support plans.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes16 guidance points2 criteria

    Introduction to privacy and dignity in children’s services and adult social care settings

    This topic introduces privacy and dignity in children's services and adult social care. Learners must know the principles of dignity and the care worker's role in promoting it.

    Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    7 learning outcomes23 guidance points3 criteria

    Enable individuals to develop strategies to manage their behaviour

    This subtopic focuses on empowering adult care recipients to proactively manage their own behavioural responses through person-centred support, underpinned by legal frameworks and positive behaviour support principles. It involves collaborative assessment of behavioural impacts, co-production of tailored strategies to reduce distress-related behaviours, and continuous evaluation to ensure effectiveness and dignity in care delivery.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Care for individuals with urethral catheters

    This subtopic equips learners with the knowledge and practical competence to safely care for individuals with urethral catheters. It covers current legislation and best practice, the catheterisation procedure, appropriate equipment use, and the skills to prepare, perform, and monitor catheter care while maintaining dignity and preventing infection.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Lead a service that supports individuals through significant life events

    This subtopic equips leaders to establish and oversee comprehensive support frameworks for individuals facing major transitions such as bereavement, diagnosis, or entering care. Practical application involves auditing systems, aligning resources, and developing staff competence to ensure dignified, person-centred care that upholds rights and preferences.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Risk-taking and Risk Management in Adult Care

    This element explores the principles and practices of positive risk-taking within adult care, emphasizing the balance between enabling individuals to make choices and ensuring their safety. It covers the legal and ethical frameworks around mental capacity and consent, equipping leaders to support autonomous decision-making while managing potential harms. Learners will examine how to apply these concepts to person-centred care planning, safeguarding, and promoting independence.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Installation, maintenance and removal of assistive technology in social care

    This element of the Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care focuses on the practical skills and underpinning knowledge required to install, maintain, and remove assistive technology in social care settings. It addresses the impact on the individual's dignity, independence, and safety, alongside the responsibilities of care workers to ensure person-centred, ethical, and legally compliant practice. Learners will develop competence in assessing needs, following technical instructions, and collaborating with the individual, their supporters, and other professionals throughout the technology lifecycle.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Introduction to the prevention and control of infection in children’s services and adult health and social care settings

    This element introduces learners to fundamental principles of infection prevention and control in health, social care, and children’s settings. It covers the nature of common infections, standard precautions including hand hygiene and personal protective equipment, and safe management of waste to reduce transmission risks. Understanding roles and responsibilities ensures that learners can contribute to a safe environment for service users and staff.

    Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    10 learning outcomes23 guidance points3 criteria

    Safeguarding and Protection in Adult Care

    This subtopic centres on the manager’s pivotal role in embedding a proactive safeguarding culture within adult care settings, integrating statutory duties under the Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005, and associated regulations. It requires a critical understanding of preventing, recognizing, and responding to abuse and neglect of vulnerable adults, while also ensuring the safety of children and young people who may be encountered. Additionally, managers must navigate the lawful and ethical use of restrictive practices, balancing autonomy with protection, and ensuring all interventions are justifiable, proportionate, and subjected to rigorous oversight.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes12 guidance points

    Lead active support

    This element equips leaders with the skills to embed the active support model into adult care practice, transforming core values like dignity, choice, and independence into tangible, person-centred daily routines. It emphasizes practice leadership as the vehicle for coaching staff, modelling positive interactions, and ensuring that every moment is an opportunity for meaningful engagement. The ultimate goal is to sustain individuals' quality of life through consistently participative, evidence-informed support.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Care for the Older Person

    This element focuses on providing dignified, person-centred care to older individuals by recognising the natural biological, psychological, and social changes associated with ageing. Learners must demonstrate how to adapt communication methods to overcome sensory and cognitive barriers, while promoting independence and well-being through evidence-based care strategies tailored to the older person's unique needs and preferences.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Enable individuals to negotiate environments

    This element focuses on equipping care workers to support individuals in safely navigating and accessing environments, whether at home, in the community, or within care settings. It explores practical strategies to assess and mitigate environmental barriers—physical, sensory, cognitive, and social—that may hinder independence, and emphasises person-centred planning and ongoing evaluation to ensure the support remains effective and promotes the individual's autonomy.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Lead and manage end of life care services

    This element focuses on the leadership and management skills required to develop, deliver, and improve end of life care services in adult care settings. It explores the application of current legislation, policy, and best practice to create compassionate, person-centred services that meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of individuals nearing the end of life. Learners will examine how to build effective relationships with individuals, families, and multidisciplinary teams, while supporting staff development and driving continuous quality improvement.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF), Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Duty of care

    Duty of care is a legal obligation requiring care workers to act in the best interests of individuals, ensuring their safety and wellbeing while respecting their rights. This subtopic explores the practical implications of duty of care, how to balance it with individual choice, and the procedures for addressing dilemmas and complaints within a care setting.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Enable rights and choices of individuals with dementia whilst minimising risks

    This topic covers enabling rights and choices for individuals with dementia while minimising risks. Learners must understand legislation, maximise rights, involve carers, and maintain dignity. Balancing autonomy with safety is key.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Keeping yourself and others safe from COVID-19

    This element equips learners with fundamental knowledge about COVID-19, its transmission, and its impact on the human body, enabling them to implement effective infection prevention and control measures. It emphasizes personal responsibility and practical strategies to safeguard oneself, colleagues, and service users in health, social care, and children’s settings, aligning with public health guidelines.

    Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    7 learning outcomes29 guidance points3 criteria

    Care for the physical and nutritional needs of babies and young children

    This subtopic equips learners with the practical skills to deliver holistic physical and nutritional care tailored to babies and young children. It emphasises creating safe, developmentally appropriate routines, promoting exercise, and meeting specific dietary requirements from birth to 36 months, ensuring optimal growth and wellbeing in line with regulatory standards.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Lead communication in adult care settings

    This subtopic focuses on the role of a lead practitioner in managing communication within adult care settings. It involves assessing individual communication needs and preferences, supporting the use of assistive technology to remove barriers, and employing effective strategies to interact and share information. The element also underscores the critical need to uphold confidentiality in all interactions, ensuring legal and ethical compliance.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Supervision and Performance Management in Adult Care

    This element explores the critical role of supervision in fostering reflective practice, supporting staff development, and ensuring safe, high-quality care in adult social care settings. It equips leaders with the frameworks and skills to conduct meaningful supervisory conversations, set performance standards, and address underperformance through fair, transparent, and legally compliant procedures. Mastery of these functions is essential for maintaining a motivated workforce and meeting regulatory requirements such as those from the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Managing Paediatric Illness, Injuries and Emergencies

    This topic covers first aid for infants and children with injuries, medical conditions, and emergencies. It includes managing fractures, head injuries, burns, poisoning, anaphylaxis, and more.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in Paediatric First Aid (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Administer medication to individuals and monitor the effects

    This subtopic equips learners with the knowledge and skills to safely administer medication within healthcare settings, adhering to legal frameworks such as the Medicines Act and Misuse of Drugs Act. It covers the classification and use of common drugs, plus practical techniques for preparation, administration, and monitoring therapeutic and adverse effects, ensuring person-centred care and accurate documentation.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    Mental health in the workplace for managers

    This subtopic equips managers with the essential knowledge and skills to promote mental wellbeing in the workplace, covering the moral, financial, and legal justifications for support, the interplay between work and mental health, effective communication strategies, and practical support mechanisms including absence management and return-to-work processes. It also emphasises the importance of managers maintaining their own wellbeing, ensuring they can lead with resilience and empathy in line with the Highfield Level 3 Award requirements.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in Understanding Mental Health in the Workplace for Managers (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    Recognition and Management of Illness and Injury in the Workplace

    This subtopic equips the first aider with essential skills to systematically assess and manage a range of workplace injuries and acute medical conditions. Learners will develop competence in conducting secondary surveys and delivering appropriate first aid for fractures, spinal injuries, burns, poisoning, anaphylaxis, and major illnesses, ensuring safe and effective care until professional help arrives.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Professional Development for Effective Commissioning

    This element examines the critical competencies required for effective wellbeing commissioning, including strategic needs assessment, co-production with communities, outcome-based contracting, and ethical resource stewardship. It also explores systematic approaches to continuous professional development, such as reflective practice, skills gap analysis, and proactive engagement with emerging evidence and legislation, ensuring commissioners remain adaptive and impactful in delivering person-centred outcomes.

    Highfield Level 5 Certificate in Principles of Commissioning for Wellbeing (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Introduction to bipolar disorder

    This element introduces learners to bipolar disorder, a mood disorder characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy and activity levels, including manic and depressive episodes. It explores the profound impact on an individual's daily functioning, relationships and overall well-being, and distinguishes clinical depression from ordinary low mood. Effective management strategies, including medication, therapy and lifestyle adjustments, are also examined to support recovery and stability.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Options and interventions for those affected by substance use/misuse

    This subtopic equips learners with the knowledge to differentiate between experimental, recreational, dependent, and chaotic substance use, and to understand the physical, psychological, and social problems linked to each. It explores evidence-based treatment pathways including detoxification, pharmacological interventions, psychosocial therapies, and mutual aid, while critically engaging with harm-reduction principles such as needle exchange and opioid substitution therapy. Learners also develop the competence to identify and appropriately respond to acute substance-related incidents like overdose, ensuring immediate safety and facilitating onward referral.

    Highfield Level 2 Award In Substance Misuse (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Assess the individual in a health and social care setting

    This subtopic covers the systematic process of holistic assessment in adult care, focusing on the manager's role in leading and coordinating person-centred assessments that comply with legislation, inform care planning, and improve outcomes. It emphasises the practical application of assessment frameworks, risk assessment, and multidisciplinary collaboration to ensure individuals' needs and preferences are at the centre of care decisions.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Awareness of protection and safeguarding in children’s services and adult social care settings

    This subtopic explores the fundamental principles of safeguarding vulnerable individuals, including recognising types of abuse and understanding legal frameworks. Learners examine how to respond appropriately to suspected or alleged abuse, ensuring they follow reporting procedures while maintaining confidentiality. It also clarifies professional boundaries and personal responsibilities to promote a safe working environment in health and social care settings.

    Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    3 learning outcomes17 guidance points3 criteria

    Leading change, learning and improvement in adult social care

    This element focuses on leading digital transformation in adult social care by addressing technological challenges, fostering a positive learning culture, collaborating with stakeholders, and driving continuous improvement. It equips leaders with strategies to integrate technology effectively, enhance staff digital competencies, and improve care delivery outcomes.

    Highfield Level 5 Award in Understanding Digital Leadership in Adult Social Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Effective Handling of Information in Adult Social Care Settings

    This subtopic covers the fundamental principles and practical skills required to handle sensitive information within adult social care settings. It emphasizes the importance of confidentiality, secure record-keeping, and lawful data sharing to protect individuals' rights and wellbeing. Learners must demonstrate an understanding of relevant legislation, such as the Data Protection Act and GDPR, and apply these to real-world scenarios.

    Highfield Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Assess the needs of carers and families

    This element focuses on the systematic assessment of carers' and families' needs within adult care settings. Learners develop skills to recognise the invaluable contribution of informal carers, engage them in partnership, and conduct holistic assessments to identify their physical, emotional, and practical support requirements. The outcome is a collaborative, person-centred plan that safeguards carers' wellbeing and sustains their caregiving role.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes17 guidance points2 criteria

    Introduction to the principles of administering medication

    This subtopic covers the fundamental principles of safe medication administration in care settings, including preparation, risk assessment, adherence to protocols, and monitoring for effects. It emphasizes person-centred approaches, encouraging independence where appropriate, and safeguarding individuals from harm through proper procedures and timely reporting of concerns.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Medication Handling and Administration for Care Settings (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Moving people safely

    This subtopic focuses on the critical aspects of safely moving individuals while preserving their dignity and ensuring the health and safety of both the person being moved and the caregiver. It covers the importance of personal handling plans, risk assessments, correct equipment usage, and the practical application of safe handling principles. Learners gain essential skills for preventing injury and promoting respectful care in real-world health and social care settings.

    Highfield Level 2 Award in Moving People Safely (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Continuous Improvement in Adult Care

    Continuous improvement in adult care refers to an ongoing, systematic effort to enhance service quality, safety, and person-centred outcomes. It involves establishing a culture where all staff are empowered to identify and implement incremental changes, underpinned by leadership commitment, robust data analysis, and stakeholder feedback. Practical application includes using recognised improvement methodologies such as PDSA cycles to drive measurable, sustainable enhancements in care delivery.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF), Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    2 learning outcomes18 guidance points2 criteria

    Approaches to enable rights and choices for individuals with dementia whilst minimising risks

    This subtopic explores person-centred approaches to empower individuals with dementia to exercise their rights and make choices, while balancing the duty of care to minimise risks of harm. It covers key legislation like the Mental Capacity Act 2005, agreed ways of working, and practical strategies to maintain privacy, dignity, and respect. The focus is on supporting individuals to achieve their potential through collaborative working with carers and ethical decision-making.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    The person centred approach to the care and support of individuals with dementia

    This subtopic explores the person-centred approach, a holistic philosophy that prioritises the individuality, preferences, and life history of people with dementia to promote well-being. It examines carer strategies that enhance dignity and independence, and clarifies the collaborative roles of formal and informal supporters, including families, advocates, and multidisciplinary teams, in delivering consistent, compassionate, and effective dementia care.

    Highfield Level 2 Award in Awareness of Dementia (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Introduction to human rights

    This subtopic introduces the concept of human rights, focusing on the fundamental rights and freedoms that belong to every person. Learners explore how these rights are embedded in care practice through legislation such as the Human Rights Act 1998, and how they underpin person-centred approaches. It prepares care workers to recognise, respect and actively promote the dignity and autonomy of those they support.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Equality, Diversity and Rights in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Principles of communication in adult social care settings

    This unit explores the fundamental role of effective communication in adult social care, emphasizing its impact on person-centred support, relationship-building, and safeguarding. Learners examine how to adapt communication methods to individual needs, preferences, and language requirements, while identifying and overcoming common barriers. Practical application includes upholding confidentiality in line with data protection and organisational policies, ensuring that all interactions promote dignity, respect, and well-being.

    Highfield Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care (RQF), Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care (RQF)

    6 learning outcomes13 guidance points2 criteria

    Introduction to behaviour management and support for individuals with autistic spectrum conditions

    This subtopic focuses on applying a person-centred approach to behaviour support for individuals with autistic spectrum conditions. It covers strategies to understand and manage behaviours positively, support during transitions, promote safety and positive risk-taking, and facilitate access to services and opportunities. The aim is to equip learners with practical, respectful methods that enhance quality of life and uphold the individual's dignity and autonomy.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Introduction to Autistic Spectrum Conditions (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Outdoor Incident Management

    This element covers the essential principles of managing incidents and casualties in remote outdoor environments, where access to emergency services is delayed. It focuses on systematic casualty assessment, management of limb, head, neck, and torso injuries, recognition of major illness, and treatment of heat- and cold-related conditions. Practical application includes adapting first aid techniques to challenging terrain and weather while ensuring group safety.

    Highfield Level 3 Award in Outdoor First Aid (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Learning from More Experienced People

    This topic covers learning from more experienced people, including identifying them, learning effectively, and reflecting on what has been learned. It supports personal development in health and social care settings.

    Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    8 learning outcomes19 guidance points3 criteria

    Lead health and Safety in adult care settings

    This element focuses on the leadership and management of health and safety within adult care settings, encompassing legal frameworks, risk assessment, and the practical application of safe working practices. Learners will develop skills to fulfill their own responsibilities while mentoring and supporting colleagues to maintain a safe environment, ensuring compliance with regulations and fostering a positive safety culture.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Encourage learning and development

    This element focuses on the role of the adult care worker in promoting and facilitating the learning and development of individuals receiving care. It covers the theoretical underpinnings of how adults learn, practical strategies for providing person-centred support, and methods for critically evaluating the effectiveness of learning interventions to drive continuous improvement in care outcomes.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    End of life and dementia care

    This subtopic addresses the specialized care needs of individuals with dementia approaching the end of life, emphasizing person-centred approaches to manage pain and distress when communication is impaired. It also underscores the crucial role of supporting family carers through emotional, practical, and bereavement care, ensuring dignity and comfort.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes8 guidance points2 criteria

    Carry out blood collection from fixed or central lines

    This element equips healthcare support workers with the competence to safely obtain blood samples from indwelling vascular access devices such as arterial lines and central venous catheters. It covers the underpinning legislative framework, step-by-step procedural knowledge, and the skills required for preparation, collection, documentation, and post-procedure monitoring. Mastery ensures accurate diagnostic sampling while minimising infection risks and patient discomfort.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Team Leadership in Adult Care

    This element focuses on the principles of effective team leadership within adult care settings, exploring leadership theories, styles, and their practical application to enhance team performance and care quality. It also covers team development models and strategies to foster cohesive, motivated teams capable of meeting the complex needs of service users in a regulated environment. Leaders must integrate person-centred values while managing operational challenges and promoting continuous improvement.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Lead and manage group living for adults

    This element focuses on equipping leaders with the competences to design, adapt, and oversee the physical and social environment in adult care group living settings, aligning with person-centred principles to promote independence, dignity, and positive outcomes. It covers leading the planning, implementation, and review of daily living activities, ensuring they are meaningful and tailored to individuals' preferences and needs. Effective management of the group dynamic involves fostering a culture of respect, managing risks, and using reflective practice to continuously improve the quality of life for all residents.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Lead and manage infection prevention and control within the work setting

    This topic covers leading infection prevention and control in adult care settings, including implementing policies, managing information, and reviewing practices. It focuses on leadership and risk management.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Carry out vision screening

    This element develops the competence to carry out vision screening in line with current UK legislation, policies, and good practice. Learners will prepare individuals, equipment, and environments, perform screening using standardised tools, accurately record and interpret findings, and provide appropriate support and aftercare, ensuring a person-centred approach that promotes early detection of visual impairments.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Listening Techniques

    Active listening is a fundamental communication skill in health, social care, and children's and young people's settings, involving full concentration, understanding, and responding to the speaker. It goes beyond simply hearing words, requiring the listener to interpret both verbal and non-verbal cues to build trust and ensure the individual's needs are accurately identified. Mastery of this technique directly enhances the quality of care and support provided to service users, customers, and their families.

    Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    7 learning outcomes23 guidance points3 criteria

    Equality and inclusion in care settings

    This element focuses on embedding equality and inclusion into everyday care practice, ensuring that individuals are treated fairly and their differences are respected. Learners explore the legal and ethical frameworks underpinning anti-discriminatory practice, and develop the skills to work in ways that promote dignity, autonomy, and belonging. Practical application includes adapting support to meet diverse needs and accessing relevant information to challenge discrimination.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Lead inclusive practice in adult care settings

    This element equips learners to lead inclusive practice in adult care settings by embedding principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion into daily practice. It examines how inclusive approaches actively challenge discrimination, promote individual rights, and improve outcomes for service users. Learners develop the skills to role-model non-discriminatory behaviors, advocate for person-centered care, and implement strategies that foster a respectful, enabling environment in line with legal and regulatory frameworks.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Personal Behaviour for Success

    This subtopic focuses on understanding the impact of personal behaviour in health and social care and children's settings. Learners explore how behaviour influences interactions, the ripple effect on others, and strategies for self-modification to foster professional conduct, ultimately linking behaviour to personal success and career progression.

    Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    6 learning outcomes18 guidance points3 criteria

    Equality, diversity and inclusion in dementia care practice

    This element focuses on integrating equality, diversity and inclusion principles into dementia care practice, ensuring that every individual's unique background, preferences and protected characteristics are respected. It develops the learner's ability to apply person-centred approaches that promote dignity and autonomy, while actively challenging discrimination. The practical application involves tailoring care and support to meet the diverse cultural, religious, linguistic and lifestyle needs of individuals with dementia.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes16 guidance points2 criteria

    Lead practice in assessing and planning for the needs of families and carers

    This element equips senior care practitioners to lead and improve the way their team identifies, assesses, and plans support for families and carers within adult care settings. It focuses on fostering a collaborative culture where staff recognise the vital role of families and carers, develop skills to assess their needs holistically, and implement robust care planning processes. Ultimately, it aims to enhance the quality of care and support outcomes for both care recipients and their informal support networks.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Lead and manage practice in dementia care

    This unit focuses on developing the leadership and management capabilities required to drive high-quality, person-centred dementia care within adult care settings. It involves interpreting current policy and research, promoting well-being, fostering effective relationships with carers, and championing continuous improvement in practice. Practitioners must apply evidence-based approaches to enhance outcomes for individuals living with dementia and their families.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Carry out wound drainage care

    This subtopic equips healthcare support workers with the skills to safely perform wound drainage care, covering legislation, infection control, equipment use, and patient-centred procedures. It ensures learners can assess wounds, select appropriate drainage systems, maintain aseptic technique, and document outcomes effectively.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Preparation for work

    This element introduces learners to the essential personal attributes, skills, and qualities required for effective work in health, social care, and children's and young people's settings. It emphasises self-assessment of strengths and areas for development, linking these to specific job roles such as care assistant or nursery worker. Learners also explore how to investigate local and national career opportunities, including entry requirements and progression pathways.

    Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    6 learning outcomes20 guidance points3 criteria

    Cleaning, decontamination and waste management

    This subtopic focuses on the essential practices for maintaining a hygienic healthcare environment through effective cleaning, decontamination, and waste disposal. It covers the underpinning principles, practical steps, and regulatory requirements to prevent infection transmission and ensure safety for patients, staff, and visitors. Learners will develop the competence to select and use appropriate methods and agents for cleaning and decontamination, and to manage waste in line with legislation and policy.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Lead person centred practice

    This element explores leading person-centred practice in adult care, focusing on embedding the core values of individuality, rights, choice, privacy, independence, dignity, and partnership into service delivery. Learners will critically examine theoretical foundations such as the social model of disability and person-centred planning frameworks, while developing practical leadership skills to promote active participation and shared decision-making. The emphasis is on transforming care culture through reflective practice, team empowerment, and robust evidence-based approaches.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Manage induction in health and social care or children and young people’s settings

    This element focuses on the strategic management of induction processes to ensure new staff in adult care settings are effectively integrated, understand their roles, and meet regulatory requirements. It covers the full cycle from planning and delivery through to evaluation and continuous improvement, emphasising person-centred approaches and compliance with the Care Certificate and relevant legislation. Effective induction reduces staff turnover, enhances service quality, and safeguards vulnerable individuals by embedding the organisation's values and standards from the outset.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes14 guidance points

    Essential Digital Skills for Working in Care

    This element equips care workers with fundamental digital competencies required for modern care delivery. It covers safe use of digital devices, handling and recording information digitally, supporting and monitoring individuals through technology, communicating and collaborating with colleagues and multi-agency teams, and maintaining personal and service user online safety. Mastery of these skills ensures compliance with data protection regulations and enhances person-centred care through efficient, secure digital practices.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England), Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes15 guidance points2 criteria

    Collaborate in the assessment of environmental and social support in the community

    This element focuses on the collaborative processes required to assess an individual's need for environmental adaptations and social support within community settings. It covers the application of key legislation such as the Care Act 2014, the Mental Capacity Act 2005, and the Health and Social Care Act 2008, alongside local policies and best practice guidance. Learners must demonstrate how to work in partnership with the individual, their family, and multi-agency professionals to produce person-centred assessments and implement changes that promote independence and well-being.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Principles of healthy eating and drinking for children and adults

    This topic introduces the fundamental principles of healthy eating and adequate hydration for individuals across different age groups in care settings. Learners will explore why a balanced diet is essential for physical development, disease prevention, and mental wellbeing, and will understand the critical role that fluids play in maintaining bodily functions. The content equips learners with foundational knowledge to promote healthy food and drink choices within health and social care environments.

    Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    6 learning outcomes24 guidance points3 criteria

    Manage quality in health and social care or children and young people’s setting

    This unit develops the learner's ability to understand, implement, and evaluate quality assurance frameworks within adult care settings. It focuses on applying regulatory standards, continuous improvement, and leadership in quality processes to ensure safe, effective, and person-centered care delivery.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Facilitate person centred assessment, planning, implementation and review

    This element equips learners with the skills to facilitate person-centred care, ensuring that assessment, planning, implementation, and review are collaborative processes driven by the individual's preferences, strengths, and aspirations. It emphasises the practical application of principles such as active participation, holistic assessment, and ongoing monitoring to adapt care to changing needs, promoting well-being and independence.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes16 guidance points2 criteria

    Lead practice which supports individuals to take positive risks

    This element focuses on leadership responsibilities in embedding a culture of positive risk-taking within adult care. It explores how person-centred assessment and care planning integrate with legal and policy frameworks that uphold individuals' rights to autonomy and decision-making. Practical application involves developing systems and practices that involve individuals, families, and teams in assessing and managing risks in a balanced, enabling way, while continuously evaluating outcomes.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Facilitate learning and development activities to meet individual needs and preferences

    This subtopic equips adult care practitioners to design and deliver learning activities that respect and respond to individual needs and preferences, fostering empowerment, dignity, and independence. It involves assessing an individual’s unique capabilities, co-creating meaningful plans, and adapting facilitation techniques to promote engagement and development. Practical application ensures compliance with the Care Act 2014, CQC fundamental standards, and the principles of person-centred care, ultimately enhancing well-being and quality of life.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Principles of personal development in children’s services and adult social care settings

    This subtopic introduces the core principles of personal development within children's services and adult social care, emphasizing continuous improvement through reflective practice. It explores how mandatory learning activities, such as training and supervision, enhance an individual's competence and service delivery. Learners will understand how to create and utilize a personal development plan (PDP) to structure their professional growth in line with regulatory standards and best practice guidelines.

    Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    7 learning outcomes16 guidance points3 criteria

    Gain access to the homes of individuals, deal with emergencies and ensure security on departure

    This subtopic equips care workers with the practical skills and knowledge to safely and respectfully access service users' homes, following agreed protocols. It covers managing situations where entry is not possible, handling emergencies discovered inside, and ensuring security upon departure. Mastery of these procedures is essential for maintaining trust, safety, and dignity in domiciliary care settings.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes15 guidance points2 criteria

    Collate and communicate health information to individuals

    This element focuses on the systematic process of gathering relevant health data from individuals and sharing it accurately while adhering to legal and ethical frameworks. It emphasises person-centred approaches to ensure information is collected respectfully, with informed consent, and communicated effectively using appropriate methods and channels. Mastery involves not only technical data handling but also interpersonal skills to support individuals in making informed decisions about their care, in line with national guidance and good practice.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Lead the management of transitions

    This subtopic focuses on the leader's role in managing transitions within adult care settings, including moves between services, life stage changes, and end-of-life care. It requires an in-depth understanding of how transitions impact individual well-being and the ability to design, implement, and evaluate provision that equips and supports staff to facilitate positive transitions and manage significant life events effectively.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Produce a Curriculum Vitae

    This topic covers the purpose and content of a CV and how to produce one. Learners will understand what information to include and how to present it effectively.

    Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    6 learning outcomes34 guidance points3 criteria

    Communicate with children and young people in care settings

    This element focuses on developing the skills and knowledge required to communicate effectively with children and young people in healthcare support settings. It emphasizes the importance of adapting communication to meet individual needs, wishes, and preferences, while recognizing the significance of play and distraction techniques to alleviate anxiety and foster engagement. Mastery of these competencies ensures that care is child-centred, respects confidentiality, and promotes positive outcomes.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Handle information in care settings

    This element focuses on the secure handling of information within care settings, ensuring confidentiality, compliance with data protection legislation (e.g., UK GDPR), and adherence to organisational policies. It covers understanding why information must be protected, knowing where to seek guidance when unsure, and applying agreed ways of working to record, store, share, and dispose of information safely. Practical application includes maintaining accurate care records, obtaining consent for information sharing, and reporting any breaches or concerns.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Mentoring in social care

    Mentoring in social care is a developmental partnership where a mentor supports a mentee’s professional growth through guided reflection, skill enhancement, and knowledge sharing, all within the framework of adult care standards. This subtopic equips learners with the ability to define their mentoring role, build effective relationships, and collaboratively set and review goals that improve practice and outcomes for service users. Practical application involves using mentoring models and communication strategies to foster a culture of continuous improvement and person-centred care.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Leading Continuous Improvement and Innovation in Adult Social Care

    This subtopic equips leaders with the knowledge and skills to drive continuous quality improvement and foster innovation within adult social care. It emphasises the application of improvement methodologies, effective change management, and the creation of a learning culture that enhances outcomes for individuals receiving care. Practical application involves leading teams to identify areas for improvement, implement evidence-based changes, and sustain innovations that adapt to evolving needs.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Communicate with individuals about promoting their health and wellbeing

    This subtopic equips learners with the skills to engage individuals in conversations about lifestyle choices, using person-centred communication to promote health and wellbeing. Learners explore the interplay between lifestyle factors and health outcomes, and develop strategies to encourage positive change while respecting autonomy and confidentiality.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Understand how to handle information in children’s services and adult social care settings

    This subtopic equips learners with the knowledge to handle personal and sensitive information securely in children’s services and adult social care settings. It covers the principles of confidentiality, data protection legislation, and the practical measures to ensure information security. Understanding these principles is crucial for maintaining trust and meeting legal requirements in care environments.

    Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    7 learning outcomes26 guidance points3 criteria

    Health, safety and wellbeing in care settings

    This unit underpins the essential knowledge and skills required to maintain health, safety and wellbeing in care settings, ensuring that learners can identify and mitigate risks to themselves, individuals receiving care, and others. It covers legal and organisational responsibilities, risk assessment, infection control, safe moving and handling, hazardous substances, fire safety, security, and stress management, all of which are critical for delivering safe, person-centred care and complying with regulatory standards.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes18 guidance points

    Leading Health and Safety in Adult Social Care

    This element equips care leaders with the advanced knowledge and skills to interpret and apply statutory health and safety frameworks within adult social care settings. It focuses on leading systematic implementation, embedding a positive safety culture, and managing risks proactively to safeguard service users, staff, and others. Mastery of this area is essential for ensuring regulatory compliance (e.g., CQC, HSE) and driving continuous improvement in care quality.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Personal development in adult social care settings

    This element focuses on the essential skills of self-assessment, planning, and reflective practice required for continuous professional development in adult social care. Learners must demonstrate the ability to evaluate their own performance against competence standards, create actionable personal development plans, and systematically use reflection and evidence-based practice to enhance the quality of care they provide.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Understand the principles and values in health and social care _adults and children and young people_, early years and childcare

    This subtopic introduces the foundational principles and values essential for work in health, social care, and early years settings, such as dignity, respect, privacy, and confidentiality. It emphasises the importance of person-centred approaches that recognise the uniqueness of each individual, including adults, children, and young people, ensuring their rights and preferences are upheld in all care practices.

    Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    8 learning outcomes18 guidance points3 criteria

    Leading Person-Centred, Outcomes-Based Practice in Adult Social Care

    This subtopic explores the pivotal role of the leader in embedding person-centred, outcomes-focused practice within adult social care settings. It examines how effective leadership fosters partnerships with individuals and their networks to co-produce support that enables positive, self-defined outcomes. Learners will critically evaluate the use of positive risk-taking and relationship-centred approaches to promote autonomy and wellbeing, while ensuring compliance with regulatory expectations.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Implement person-centred approaches in care settings

    This subtopic focuses on delivering care that is centred on the individual's unique preferences, needs, and values, ensuring they are at the heart of all decisions affecting their support. It involves understanding the core principles of person-centred practice, such as dignity, respect, and autonomy, and applying them in daily interactions, from obtaining valid consent to promoting active participation. Learners must demonstrate how to uphold an individual's rights to make informed choices and how to support their overall well-being through collaborative and empowering care.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Help individuals address their substance use through an action plan

    This element equips care practitioners to support individuals in addressing substance use by developing and reviewing personalised action plans. It requires a solid understanding of substance use backgrounds, including triggers, effects, and evidence-based interventions, to collaboratively create realistic goals. The process emphasises person-centred care, risk assessment, and ongoing evaluation to adapt plans to changing needs, ensuring practical application in real-world adult care settings.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Principles of self-directed support

    This element explores the principle of self-directed support, where individuals are empowered to make informed choices about their care and support needs, tailoring services to their personal outcomes. It covers the role of the care worker in facilitating person-centred planning, the mechanisms of personal budgets including direct payments, managed accounts, and ISFs, and the iterative, outcome-focused review process that ensures support remains aligned with the individual's changing goals.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF), Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    3 learning outcomes26 guidance points3 criteria

    Conduct external ear examinations

    This subtopic equips learners with the knowledge and skills to safely and effectively perform external ear examinations as part of routine care, adhering to legal and best practice frameworks. It covers ear anatomy, indications for examination, preparation, technique, and accurate documentation to support patient wellbeing and clinical decision-making.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Understand the range of service provision and roles within health and social care _adults and children and young people_, early years and childcare

    This topic introduces the range of service provision and roles in health, social care, early years, and childcare. Learners must know the types of services available and the scope of roles within these settings. It provides a foundation for understanding the sector.

    Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    7 learning outcomes23 guidance points3 criteria

    Leading Team Learning and Development in Adult Social Care

    This topic covers principles of learning and professional development in adult social care, and how to lead learning practices within teams.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Introduction to personalisation in social care

    This element introduces the concept of personalisation, which places the individual at the centre of their care and support, ensuring services are tailored to their unique needs, preferences, and goals. It explores key systems like person-centred planning, self-directed support, and personal budgets that enable individuals to have choice and control over their lives. Understanding personalisation is fundamental for care practitioners to shift from a 'one-size-fits-all' approach to delivering flexible, responsive support that promotes independence and well-being.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes13 guidance points2 criteria

    Conduct hearing assessment

    This subtopic equips healthcare support workers with the knowledge and skills to perform hearing assessments safely and accurately. It covers the legal and procedural frameworks, the anatomy and physiology of the ear, equipment maintenance, and the step-by-step process of assessment from preparation to reporting. Practical application ensures effective patient care and compliance with national standards.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Professional practice in adult care settings

    This element explores the integration of ethical theories, professional values, and statutory frameworks into daily adult care practice. It emphasises how duty of care underpins safe service delivery while balancing individuals' rights to choice and control. Learners will apply these principles to real-world scenarios, ensuring care is person-centred, lawful, and ethically sound.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    The Commissioning Cycle

    The commissioning cycle in adult social care involves assessing local needs, planning strategic outcomes, procuring or transforming services, and continuously reviewing impact to enhance wellbeing. At Level 5, understanding this cycle is critical for effective market shaping and workforce development, ensuring that services are person-centred, sustainable, and aligned with community assets.

    Highfield Level 5 Certificate in Principles of Commissioning for Wellbeing (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Understanding the principles of communication and interaction with individuals with autistic spectrum conditions

    This subtopic explores the communication and interaction principles essential for supporting individuals with autistic spectrum conditions (ASC). Learners will examine typical speech and language development variations, effective strategies to facilitate social interaction, and the profound impact of sensory processing differences, cognition, and awareness on communication. It underpins person-centred support in health and social care settings.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Introduction to Autistic Spectrum Conditions (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Continuous Development for Leaders of Adult Social Care

    This element focuses on the leader's ability to proactively manage their own professional growth, emotional intelligence, and operational demands within adult social care. It requires embedding reflective practice, seeking and utilising feedback, and employing robust time and priority management strategies to model best practice and ensure high-quality service delivery.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Principles of Diversity, equality and inclusion in adult social care settings

    This subtopic addresses the fundamental principles of diversity, equality, and inclusion within adult social care, emphasizing their role in promoting person-centred care and meeting legislative requirements. It provides learners with the knowledge to work inclusively, respecting individual differences, and the skills to actively challenge discriminatory practices while raising awareness among colleagues and service users. Practical application involves embedding these principles into daily care routines, communication, and care planning to ensure equitable outcomes for all individuals.

    Highfield Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Communicating

    This subtopic introduces learners to the principles of effective communication within Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s settings, with a specific focus on digital literacy. It covers the practical skills required to manage contact information for professional communication and emphasizes the importance of understanding digital footprints. Learners will explore how online actions can impact personal reputation and service user confidentiality, aligning with safeguarding responsibilities.

    Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    3 learning outcomes19 guidance points3 criteria

    Assessment, implementation and review of assistive technology in social care

    This subtopic examines the systematic process of assessing, implementing, and reviewing assistive technology within adult care settings, focusing on person-centred outcomes and legal compliance. Learners apply knowledge of legislation such as the Care Act 2014 and the Equality Act 2010 to ensure technology solutions promote dignity, independence, and safety. The unit develops practical skills in partnership working, risk enablement, and the ongoing evaluation of technology provision to enhance individual wellbeing.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Understand equality, diversity and inclusion in dementia care

    This element focuses on recognising and valuing the unique characteristics of individuals living with dementia, ensuring care is tailored to their personal history, preferences, and cultural background. By adopting person-centred approaches, care workers promote dignity, autonomy, and inclusion, directly enhancing well-being. Practical strategies for engaging with diverse individuals, such as adapting communication methods and respecting varied needs, are essential for competent and compassionate dementia support.

    Highfield Level 2 Award in Awareness of Dementia (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Personal Development in Adult Social Care Settings

    This element focuses on the worker's responsibility to actively engage in their own professional growth within adult social care. It covers the process of agreeing a personal development plan with a supervisor, identifying learning needs, and taking steps to develop knowledge, skills, and understanding to meet the requirements of the role and provide high-quality, person-centred care. Continuous development ensures that care practices remain current, safe, and aligned with regulatory standards such as the Care Quality Commission (CQC) requirements.

    Highfield Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Administer oral nutritional products to individuals

    This element covers the safe and effective administration of oral nutritional supplements (ONS) to individuals, in accordance with legal frameworks, national guidelines, and individual care plans. It emphasizes understanding product types, managing reactions, and maintaining accurate stock records to support nutritional care in healthcare settings. Practical application includes assessing individual needs, ensuring correct identification, and providing person-centred support during administration.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Decision Making in Adult Care

    This element explores the systematic processes involved in making informed and ethical decisions within adult care settings. It examines leadership responsibilities in fostering collaborative decision-making, effective communication strategies for stakeholder engagement, and robust methods for evaluating decisions to drive continuous improvement. Practical application focuses on enhancing service user outcomes, ensuring regulatory compliance, and promoting a culture of shared accountability.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Assist in the administration of medication

    This subtopic delves into the critical aspects of assisting with medication administration within health and social care settings. It explores the legislative framework, including the Medicines Act and Care Act, and defines the support worker's role in safely preparing, administering, and recording medication under supervision. The focus is on ensuring person-centred care, maintaining dignity, and adhering to strict safety protocols to prevent errors.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    2 learning outcomes13 guidance points2 criteria

    Principles of diversity, equality and inclusion in adult social care settings

    This element explores the essential principles of diversity, equality, and inclusion within adult social care, emphasizing their critical role in promoting anti-discriminatory practice and person-centred support. Learners will examine how valuing individual differences and ensuring equal access to services not only meets legal and regulatory requirements but also enhances the well-being and dignity of those receiving care. The element also covers practical strategies for working inclusively and knowing where to obtain guidance and support when discrimination occurs.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care (RQF)

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Assist with the transfer of individuals, who misuse substances, between agencies and services.

    This element focuses on the safe and effective transfer of individuals who misuse substances between health, social care, and support agencies. It requires a thorough understanding of relevant legislation, such as the Care Act 2014 and the Mental Capacity Act 2005, alongside organisational policies to ensure seamless transitions. Practitioners must apply person-centred approaches, respect diversity, and use advanced communication skills to coordinate with multiple services while safeguarding the individual's rights and dignity throughout the process.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Introduction to the principles of handling medication

    This subtopic introduces the fundamental principles of safe medication handling in care settings, covering the entire lifecycle from receipt to disposal. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to legal requirements, organisational policies, and professional standards to ensure service user safety. Learners will explore how to correctly receive, store, record, and dispose of medications, as well as understand prescriptions and supply procedures, forming the cornerstone of competent and accountable practice.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Medication Handling and Administration for Care Settings (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Principles of equality, diversity, rights and inclusion in care

    This element covers the foundational principles of equality, diversity, rights and inclusion within care environments, emphasising how these principles underpin person-centred practice and legal compliance. Learners explore the meaning of these concepts, their impact on individuals, and the practical steps to promote them, linking directly to safeguarding and the prevention of discrimination.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Equality, Diversity and Rights in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    The use of technology and data in adult social care

    This subtopic explores the integration of technology and data into adult social care, examining national policies, benefits for care quality, and critical ethical and legal considerations. Learners will develop digital leadership skills to ensure technology enhances person-centred care while complying with data protection laws and governance frameworks.

    Highfield Level 5 Award in Understanding Digital Leadership in Adult Social Care

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Substance misuse and young people

    This subtopic focuses on the specialized knowledge and skills required to address substance misuse among young people. Learners will explore effective communication strategies tailored to adolescents, methods for identifying substance-related needs, and the necessity of adhering to organisational policies to ensure safe and ethical practice. The practical application involves direct youth work, early intervention, and multi-agency collaboration.

    Highfield Level 2 Award In Substance Misuse (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Introduction to eating disorders

    This subtopic provides a foundational understanding of eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, and their profound physical, psychological, and social impacts on individuals. Learners explore how these conditions can affect daily functioning, self-image, and relationships, while also examining a range of management approaches from medical interventions to psychological therapies and self-help strategies.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Leading the Implementation of Safeguarding in Adult Social Care

    This subtopic equips leaders with the knowledge and skills to interpret statutory safeguarding requirements, such as the Care Act 2014, and translate them into robust, person-centred practices within adult social care settings. It focuses on leading teams to embed a culture of vigilance and accountability, ensuring policies, procedures, and training effectively prevent and respond to abuse and neglect.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Understand the role of the social care worker

    This element explores the professional parameters of a social care worker, emphasising the need for clearly defined working relationships, adherence to employer-agreed ways of working, and collaborative practice with service users, professionals, and agencies. It underpins safe, person-centred care delivery within regulatory and policy frameworks.

    Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF) +2 more

    15 learning outcomes30 guidance points5 criteria

    Introductory awareness of Autistic Spectrum Conditions

    This element introduces the key characteristics of autistic spectrum conditions (ASC), emphasizing the spectrum nature and the diverse ways it manifests in individuals. Learners explore the typical difficulties in social communication, interaction, and flexibility of thought, and learn strategies for person-centred support and effective communication tailored to individual needs. Practical application involves recognising behaviours as a form of communication and adapting care practices to promote inclusion and well-being.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Promote access to healthcare for individuals with learning disabilities

    This element focuses on enabling care practitioners to identify and overcome barriers that individuals with learning disabilities face when accessing healthcare. It covers the unique healthcare needs and health inequalities experienced by this group, and equips learners with skills to champion inclusive practices, develop person-centred care plans, and mentor colleagues in delivering effective support. The ultimate goal is to ensure equitable access to health services, improve health outcomes, and promote autonomy and dignity for service users.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF), Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes18 guidance points2 criteria

    Conduct routine maintenance on clinical equipment

    This subtopic focuses on the essential knowledge and skills required to conduct routine maintenance on clinical equipment within healthcare settings, ensuring safe and effective operation in line with statutory requirements and organisational policies. It covers understanding relevant legislation, preparing for maintenance tasks, executing procedures correctly, and accurately documenting outcomes to maintain equipment logs and service histories.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Understanding mind-set towards work

    This subtopic focuses on the critical role that a positive and professional mind-set plays when working in health, social care, and children’s and young people’s settings. It explores why attitudes, values, and personal outlook directly impact the quality of care and support provided. Learners will also examine practical strategies to develop and refine their mind-set, enabling them to overcome challenges, embrace continuous learning, and deliver compassionate, person-centred care.

    Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    6 learning outcomes19 guidance points3 criteria

    Leading the Promotion of Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Human Rights in Adult Social Care

    This element empowers care leaders to embed equality, diversity, inclusion, and human rights into the fabric of adult social care services. It covers legal frameworks (e.g., Equality Act 2010, Human Rights Act 1998) and requires leaders to model inclusive practice, challenge discrimination, and foster a culture where every individual's rights are respected and celebrated. Practical application involves developing policies, training staff, and monitoring outcomes to ensure services are person-centred and antidiscriminatory.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Promote assistive technology in social care

    This subtopic focuses on enabling care practitioners to identify and overcome barriers to adopting assistive technology, such as cost, lack of training, or resistance to change, and to actively advocate for its integration. It covers supporting the organisation in implementing technology solutions that enhance independence and quality of life for adults in care, while also championing a culture shift towards embracing digital aids. Practical application includes assessing individual needs, sourcing appropriate devices, and leading change initiatives.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Contribute to monitoring the health of individuals affected by health conditions

    This element equips learners with the skills to monitor health status through systematic observation, accurate recording, and timely reporting. It focuses on recognising normal versus abnormal parameters in individuals with various health conditions and responding appropriately to changes, ensuring safe and person-centred care in line with organisational policies. Practical application includes performing physiological measurements, documenting findings in care records, and escalating concerns to registered practitioners.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF), Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    2 learning outcomes10 guidance points2 criteria

    Introductory awareness of models of disability

    This element introduces learners to the contrasting medical and social models of disability, exploring how these perspectives shape care delivery. It critically examines the impact of model adoption on individuals' autonomy, inclusion, and overall quality of life within care settings. By understanding these models, care workers can promote person-centred approaches that enhance wellbeing and challenge disabling barriers.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Use of online and digital software and systems

    This element introduces learners to the safe and effective use of digital systems, including email, online chat, and social media, within health and social care environments. It covers the importance of data protection, confidentiality, and professional communication when interacting with service users, colleagues, and external agencies. Learners will gain practical skills that support compliance with workplace policies and enhance person-centred care.

    Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    8 learning outcomes28 guidance points3 criteria

    Introductory awareness of sensory loss

    This subtopic introduces the fundamentals of sensory loss, exploring how sight and hearing impairments affect individuals' daily living, communication, and wellbeing. It examines the social, emotional, and environmental factors that compound these challenges, and outlines practical steps to promote inclusion and effective support. Learners will gain essential knowledge on recognising signs of sensory loss, understanding common causes, and following proper reporting procedures to ensure individuals receive timely care.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Implement therapeutic group activities

    This subtopic focuses on the planning, implementation, and evaluation of therapeutic group activities in adult care settings. It explores how structured activities can promote physical, cognitive, and social well-being, tailored to individuals' needs. Learners will apply principles of person-centred care to facilitate inclusive groups and measure outcomes to enhance quality of life.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Promote awareness of sensory loss

    This element focuses on developing the skills and knowledge required to effectively raise awareness of sensory loss in adult care settings. It involves understanding the prevalence and impact of sensory loss, designing and implementing awareness-raising activities, and critically evaluating their effectiveness to promote inclusive practice and improve quality of life for individuals with sensory impairments.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF), Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Leading the Vision and Future Direction of Adult Social Care Services

    This subtopic equips senior care leaders with the skills to formulate and articulate a compelling vision for adult social care services, aligned with sector values, regulatory standards, and emerging needs. It focuses on translating strategic intent into actionable plans, engaging stakeholders, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. Practical application involves leading organisational change, managing resistance, and ensuring the vision drives high-quality, person-centred outcomes.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Managing symptoms in end of life care

    This topic covers the effects of symptoms in end of life care, management of symptoms including pain, and integration of symptom management into the care process.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Promote good practice in the support of individuals with autistic spectrum conditions

    This element equips learners with the advanced knowledge and skills required to promote person-centred, evidence-based support for individuals with autistic spectrum conditions (ASC). It explores the evolving theoretical landscape, including the neurodiversity paradigm, and the legislative framework such as the Autism Act 2009 and the Care Act 2014. Learners will develop competence in implementing positive communication strategies, managing sensory environments, and advocating for good practice across multi-disciplinary teams.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF), Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Contribute to the discharge of individuals to carers

    This element focuses on the safe, person-centred discharge of individuals from healthcare settings to the care of informal or formal carers. It involves understanding multi-agency procedures, preparing the individual physically and emotionally, and ensuring continuity of care through effective communication, documentation, and support. Learners must demonstrate the ability to contribute to discharge plans, confirm understanding with carers, and address any concerns to promote a smooth transition.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Manage an inter-professional team in health and social care settings

    This element addresses the leadership skills needed to coordinate and manage teams composed of diverse professionals in adult care, ensuring integrated, person-centred services. It explores the principles and practical strategies for aligning service objectives, promoting effective collaboration, and evaluating outcomes to continuously improve care delivery. Application involves using evidence-based management techniques to foster communication, role clarity, and shared accountability in complex care environments.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Increase awareness about drugs, alcohol or other substances with individuals and groups

    This element develops the learner's ability to raise awareness of drugs, alcohol, and other substances among individuals and groups within adult care settings. It covers legislative and policy frameworks, the physiological and psychological effects of substance use, and available treatment pathways. The practical application involves using this knowledge to challenge stigma, promote harm reduction, and support individuals in making informed decisions about their health and well-being.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Using devices and handling information

    This subtopic introduces learners to fundamental ICT skills essential for health and social care settings, covering basic computer components, software types, and practical skills for accessing and managing digital information. It equips learners with the ability to effectively use devices to support care delivery, maintain records, and troubleshoot common technical issues, ensuring data is handled securely and efficiently.

    Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    8 learning outcomes24 guidance points3 criteria

    Provide information, advice and guidance

    This subtopic focuses on the critical role of providing accurate, person-centred information, advice and guidance (IAG) to individuals in adult care settings, underpinned by legal and ethical frameworks such as the Care Act 2014 and the principles of equality and diversity. In practice, care professionals must source, evaluate and tailor information from a range of reliable sources to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their care and support. Effective IAG delivery requires ongoing self-evaluation and professional development to maintain currency and responsiveness to individual needs.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Meet food safety requirements when providing food and drink for individuals

    This element equips care workers with essential food safety practices to prevent foodborne illnesses in vulnerable individuals. It covers the principles of hazard control, personal hygiene, and safe food handling from preparation to storage. Learners must demonstrate competence in applying these measures to protect individuals and comply with legal and organisational standards.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Manage domiciliary services

    This subtopic equips learners with the skills to effectively oversee domiciliary care services, ensuring they are person-centred, safe, and responsive to individual needs. It addresses the operational challenges of managing care in service users' homes, including workforce coordination, regulatory compliance, and day-to-day contingency planning. Mastery involves integrating leadership, risk management, and performance monitoring to deliver high-quality, consistent support within a community setting.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Leadership and Management in Adult Care

    This topic explores the concepts of leadership and management in adult care, focusing on the skills needed and how styles may be adapted to different situations.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England), Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    2 learning outcomes12 guidance points2 criteria

    Provide support to maintain and develop skills for everyday life

    This subtopic explores how care workers enable individuals to sustain and enhance daily living skills, promoting independence and well-being. It covers person-centred planning, implementation of interventions, and critical evaluation of outcomes, all within legal and ethical frameworks. Practical application requires collaboration with individuals, adaptive techniques, and ongoing assessment to support retention, regain, or development of skills.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Contribute to the safe use of medical devices in the perioperative environment

    This element focuses on the critical role of healthcare support workers in ensuring the safe use of medical devices within the high-risk perioperative setting. It covers the application of health and safety legislation and local policies to the checking, handling, and disposal of devices, directly contributing to patient safety, infection prevention, and the efficient flow of surgical procedures. Delegates will learn to verify device integrity, maintain sterility, and manage waste in accordance with regulatory standards.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Manage finance within own area of responsibility in a health and social care setting

    This element equips leaders in adult care with the competence to oversee financial processes including budget planning, allocation, monitoring, and evaluation within their area of responsibility. It emphasises the integration of financial stewardship with quality care delivery, ensuring resources are used efficiently to meet both organisational and regulatory requirements. Learners apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios, demonstrating accountability, compliance, and value for money in a social care context.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Monitor and maintain the environment and resources during and after health care activities

    This element focuses on the essential practical skills required to maintain a safe, clean, and efficient care environment before, during, and after health care activities. It covers the systematic monitoring of environmental conditions and resources, safe operation of equipment according to manufacturer guidelines, and thorough cleaning procedures to prevent cross-contamination, ensuring the wellbeing of individuals and compliance with regulatory standards.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Manage health and social care practice to ensure positive outcomes for individuals

    This topic focuses on leading health and social care practice to achieve positive outcomes for individuals, applying outcome-based principles. It includes promoting well-being, health, inclusive provision, and effective partnerships.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Move and position individuals in accordance with their care plan

    This element focuses on the safe and effective movement and positioning of individuals according to their personalised care plans. It integrates understanding of relevant legislation, anatomy and physiology, risk assessment, and practical handling techniques to prevent injury to both the individual and the care worker. The practical application involves using appropriate equipment and seeking assistance when required, ensuring dignity and comfort throughout the task.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes15 guidance points2 criteria

    Coordinate the progress of individuals through care pathways

    This subtopic focuses on the pivotal role of healthcare support workers in ensuring seamless transitions for individuals across health and social care services. It covers the application of legislation, multi-agency collaboration, and person-centred planning to maintain continuity of care. Effective coordination involves assessing needs, monitoring progress, and facilitating communication among all stakeholders to achieve optimal outcomes.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Maintaining the Independent Advocacy Relationship

    This subtopic focuses on the independent advocate's role in navigating ethical dilemmas, resolving conflicts, and sustaining professional boundaries while representing individuals in adult care settings. It emphasizes maintaining accurate records, prioritizing tasks effectively, and using supervision and networks to enhance practice, all while responding appropriately to safeguarding concerns and managing personal values and power.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    Recognise indications of substance misuse and refer individuals to specialists

    This element focuses on equipping adult care workers with the skills to identify signs of substance misuse in individuals, conduct risk assessments, maintain confidential records, and make timely referrals to specialist services. It emphasises the importance of a person-centred, non-judgemental approach to support individuals in making informed choices about their care.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Deliver exercise sessions to improve individuals’ health and wellbeing

    This element focuses on the practical and theoretical knowledge required to safely and effectively deliver exercise sessions tailored to individual health and wellbeing needs. Learners must integrate understanding of relevant legislation, physiological responses to exercise, programme design principles, and equipment use to plan and lead person-centred sessions. Competence is demonstrated through applied practice, where the ability to adapt exercises based on observation and feedback is critical for positive outcomes.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Safeguarding and protection of vulnerable adults

    This subtopic focuses on the comprehensive safeguarding responsibilities of a senior adult care practitioner, encompassing an in-depth understanding of legal frameworks (e.g., Care Act 2014, Mental Capacity Act 2005), leading service delivery to prevent abuse, orchestrating multi-agency collaboration, and continuously evaluating safeguarding systems to ensure the protection of vulnerable adults. It equips learners to embed a culture of safety, respond effectively to safeguarding concerns, and drive improvements in care settings.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Manage induction in health and social care settings

    This element focuses on the effective management of induction for new staff in adult care settings, ensuring they understand their roles, responsibilities, and the organisation's policies, thus fostering safe and compliant practice from the outset. It covers planning, implementing, supporting, evaluating, and improving induction processes to align with regulatory requirements and enhance care quality.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England), Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes13 guidance points2 criteria

    Obtain and test capillary blood samples

    This element focuses on the safe and accurate procedure for obtaining and testing capillary blood samples, a critical clinical skill in care settings for monitoring conditions such as diabetes. Learners must demonstrate competence in applying relevant legislation (e.g., Health and Safety at Work Act, COSHH) and best practice guidelines (e.g., WHO guidelines on hand hygiene) to minimize risks. The content integrates understanding of capillary anatomy, proper site selection, sample collection technique, quality control in testing, and accurate recording and communication of results for effective person-centred care.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Obtain and test specimens from individuals

    This element covers the essential skills and knowledge required to safely obtain, handle, test, and report on specimens from individuals in a care setting. It emphasises adherence to legislation, infection control, and person-centred practice, ensuring dignity and confidentiality throughout the process. Competence in this area is vital for accurate diagnosis and monitoring of health conditions, and it underpins safe and effective care delivery.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes11 guidance points

    Select and Prepare interior plant displays

    This subtopic focuses on the practical skills and underpinning knowledge required to create and maintain interior plant displays within adult care settings, contributing to a therapeutic and sensory-rich environment. Learners will be assessed on their ability to select appropriate plants and containers, use and care for tools safely, and comply with health and safety legislation while minimising environmental impact. The outcome is the establishment of visually appealing, safe, and sustainable plant displays that enhance the wellbeing of service users.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Manage physical resources

    This subtopic equips leaders with the skills to strategically manage physical resources in adult care settings, ensuring cost-effectiveness and sustainability. It covers the entire lifecycle from identifying needs and sustainable procurement to ongoing quality monitoring and usage review, aligning operational demands with regulatory and environmental responsibilities.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Deliver Training through Demonstration and Instruction

    This element focuses on equipping learners with the skills to effectively deliver training in healthcare settings using demonstration and instruction. Learners will explore how to structure a training session, model practical skills accurately, and facilitate learner understanding and application. The practical outcome is the ability to conduct training that enhances competence and ensures safe, high-quality care delivery.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Manage quality in health and social care settings

    This subtopic focuses on the leader's role in managing quality within adult care settings, encompassing the understanding of quality assurance frameworks, practical implementation of standards, and systematic evaluation of quality processes. Learners will develop skills to ensure care services meet regulatory requirements and drive continuous improvement through evidence-based leadership.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Share knowledge and good practice

    This subtopic focuses on the systematic sharing of professional knowledge and good practice within adult care settings to enhance service quality and outcomes. It involves planning effective strategies, communicating evidence-based practices, integrating new learning into own work, and critically evaluating the impact of shared knowledge on care delivery and team performance.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Personal development in care settings

    This subtopic explores the importance of ongoing personal and professional development for care workers. Learners must demonstrate the ability to reflect on their practice, identify areas for improvement, and create a structured personal development plan (PDP) that aligns with the requirements of their role and the Care Certificate standards. It underpins safe, effective, and person-centred care delivery.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Manage team performance

    Managing team performance in adult care involves overseeing and developing staff to deliver high-quality, person-centred care. It encompasses allocating work based on competence, monitoring quality through supervision and observation, and maintaining effective communication to ensure outcomes met regulatory standards such as those of the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Communicating Solutions to Others

    This topic focuses on problem-solving in health and social care settings and communicating solutions effectively to others. It also involves reviewing one's own performance to improve future practice.

    Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    3 learning outcomes20 guidance points3 criteria

    Awareness of the Mental Capacity Act 2005

    This subtopic explores the Mental Capacity Act 2005 as a statutory framework for safeguarding and empowering individuals aged 16 and over who may lack capacity to make specific decisions. It emphasises the Act's five core principles, the legal definition of restraint and its lawful use under section 6(4), and the imperative of adhering to the statutory Code of Practice to ensure dignity, autonomy, and legal protection in adult care settings.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Principles of personal development in adult social care settings

    This element focuses on the continuous professional and personal development required to maintain high standards of care in adult social settings. It explores the role of reflective practice, training, and feedback in enhancing knowledge, skills, and understanding, and introduces the personal development plan as a strategic tool for structuring and recording ongoing learning. Learners will understand how development activities align with regulatory requirements and improve outcomes for individuals receiving care.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care (RQF)

    6 learning outcomes16 guidance points2 criteria

    Principles of equality, diversity, rights and inclusion in dementia, learning disability and mental health care

    This subtopic equips learners to apply equality, diversity, and rights principles specifically within dementia, learning disability, and mental health care. It focuses on understanding individuals' lived experiences and the critical role of person-centred approaches in promoting dignity and autonomy. Practical application involves adapting communication, supporting decision-making, and implementing inclusive practices that respect each person's unique identity and legal rights.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Equality, Diversity and Rights in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    The Role of the Commissioner for Wellbeing

    This subtopic explores the multifaceted role of the commissioner for wellbeing, emphasizing how strategic leadership and partnership working translate statutory duties and ethical values into effective service design and delivery. It critically examines the commissioner's responsibility to champion person-centred, outcomes-focused approaches that promote independence and improve population health, while navigating complex governance and financial constraints. Mastery of this role requires integrating reflective practice and evidence-based analysis to continuously enhance commissioning cycles and drive sustainable community wellbeing.

    Highfield Level 5 Certificate in Principles of Commissioning for Wellbeing (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Advise and inform individuals on managing their condition

    This element focuses on equipping healthcare support workers with the skills to provide tailored advice and information to individuals, enabling them to self-manage their health conditions effectively. It involves understanding the pathophysiology and impact of conditions, assessing individual information needs, and collaboratively planning lifestyle adaptations. Successful application requires a person-centred approach, ensuring that advice is accessible, culturally appropriate, and empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their care.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Care Worker Responsibilities and Ways of Working

    This subtopic equips care workers with the knowledge and skills to adhere to agreed ways of working as defined by their employer, professional standards, and legal frameworks. It emphasizes the importance of understanding boundaries in working relationships and collaborating effectively with individuals, colleagues, and other professionals to deliver person-centred care.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Understand blood-borne infections related to substance use/misuse

    This subtopic examines the critical link between substance misuse—particularly intravenous drug use—and the transmission of blood-borne infections such as HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. It explores how shared injecting equipment, risky behaviours, and compromised immune systems create pathways for infection, emphasising prevention and harm reduction in care settings. Learners will understand the practical implications for those working with individuals affected by substance misuse, enabling them to promote safer practices and support service users effectively.

    Highfield Level 2 Award In Substance Misuse (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Decision Making for Leaders of Adult Social Care Services

    This subtopic equips leaders with the frameworks and critical thinking skills necessary to make informed, ethical, and person-centred decisions in adult social care. It explores the interplay between evidence-based practice, legal frameworks, and collaborative approaches to ensure decisions positively impact service users and organizational outcomes. Learners will develop the ability to apply decision-making models, engage stakeholders, and evaluate outcomes in complex care settings.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Introduction to health and safety and professional conduct for helping those with mental ill-health

    This subtopic introduces foundational principles of health and safety and professional conduct when supporting individuals with mental ill-health. It emphasises the critical role of equality, diversity, and inclusion in providing person-centred care, while outlining safeguarding responsibilities, legal and ethical duties, risk assessment processes, and self-care strategies for practitioners. Mastery of these concepts ensures safe, effective, and compassionate support that upholds the rights and dignity of service users.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Promoting Effective Communication in Adult Social Care Settings

    This element focuses on the fundamental role of effective communication in adult social care, emphasizing person-centred approaches that respect individual needs, wishes, and preferences. Learners will explore practical strategies for overcoming barriers, using communication aids and technologies safely, and upholding confidentiality in line with legal and ethical frameworks. Mastery of these skills ensures that care workers can build trusting relationships, promote dignity, and deliver high-quality support tailored to each individual.

    Highfield Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Entrepreneurial Skills in Adult Care

    This element equips adult care leaders with the entrepreneurial acumen to navigate the evolving landscape of health and social care markets. It focuses on identifying opportunities for service diversification, understanding commissioning and procurement processes, and applying innovation to drive sustainable growth while maintaining person-centred, compliant delivery.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Understand the factors that can influence communication and interaction with individuals who have dementia

    This subtopic explores the multiple factors influencing communication and interaction with individuals living with dementia, including environmental, physical, psychological, and social elements. It emphasizes how a person-centred approach, which respects the individual's unique history, preferences, and abilities, can foster positive communication and reduce barriers to meaningful interaction in care settings.

    Highfield Level 2 Award in Awareness of Dementia (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Managing Comments and Complaints in Adult Social Care

    This element focuses on the strategic leadership required to manage comments and complaints within adult social care services, ensuring that feedback is used to drive continuous improvement and maintain compliance with regulatory standards. Learners will explore how to establish robust policies and procedures that encourage service users and their families to voice concerns, and how to lead a culture where complaints are seen as opportunities for learning and development. Effective complaint management not only safeguards individuals but also enhances the reputation of the service and promotes person-centred care.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Prepare environments and resources for use during healthcare activities

    This subtopic covers the essential knowledge and practical skills required to prepare healthcare environments and resources safely and effectively. Learners must demonstrate competence in cleaning, checking, and arranging equipment and supplies to meet regulatory standards, infection control requirements, and individual care plans. Mastery ensures that care settings remain functional, dignified, and responsive to the needs of service users and healthcare professionals.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Support individuals during the last days of life

    This element equips senior care practitioners with the competence to deliver holistic, person-centred care to individuals at the end of life. It focuses on understanding the physical, emotional, social and spiritual impact of dying, effectively managing common terminal symptoms, and supporting both the individual and their significant others through the dying process and immediately after death. The practical application involves seamless coordination with multi-disciplinary teams, adherence to national frameworks such as the Gold Standards Framework and NICE guidance, and ensuring dignity, comfort and respect for cultural and personal wishes throughout.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Develop and agree individualised care plans for babies and families

    This subtopic focuses on the structured process of creating and agreeing individualised care plans for babies and their families, emphasising the healthcare support worker's role in engaging parents and carers as active partners. It requires integrating current legislation, national guidelines, and best practice frameworks to ensure that care plans are safe, person-centred, and responsive to each family's unique circumstances. Practical application involves gathering holistic information, assessing factors that may impact care needs, and collaboratively developing a plan that promotes the baby's health and development during the first year.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Support individuals in the use of assistive technology

    This element equips learners with the knowledge and skills to effectively support adults in selecting, using, and evaluating assistive technology (AT) to enhance independence and well-being. It covers a range of AT from low-tech aids to digital solutions, ensuring person-centred practice and compliance with legal frameworks such as the Care Act 2014.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Prepare for and carry out extended feeding techniques

    This element equips learners with the essential knowledge and practical skills to safely administer nutrition via enteral feeding tubes, covering legislation, anatomy, techniques, risk management, and documentation. Competence requires strict adherence to care plans, infection control protocols, and accurate record-keeping, ensuring the individual's dignity and safety throughout the procedure.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes18 guidance points2 criteria

    Develop positive relationships with children and young people

    This subtopic focuses on building trust and rapport with children and young people in healthcare settings. It covers legal frameworks, effective communication techniques, and strategies to engage young individuals, empowering them to make informed decisions about their care. Applying these skills ensures person-centred support and promotes positive outcomes.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Professional practice in health and social care for adults

    This element focuses on integrating theoretical models into daily practice, leading teams to embed person-centred values and legal frameworks, and fostering a culture of evidence-based decision-making and critical reflection. It ensures that leadership in adult care is informed, ethical, and continuously improving, directly impacting service quality and outcomes for individuals.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Support individuals to access and manage direct payments

    This element equips care practitioners with the skills to empower individuals in receipt of direct payments, enabling them to exercise choice and control over their care. It covers the entire process from initial decision-making through to ongoing review, ensuring compliance with legal frameworks and person-centered principles.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Obtain venous blood samples

    This subtopic equips learners with the knowledge and skills to safely and competently obtain venous blood samples from adults in care settings. It encompasses understanding relevant legislation and guidelines, key anatomy and physiology for vein selection and patient safety, meticulous preparation, the practical procedure of venepuncture, and correct handling and transportation of samples to maintain integrity for accurate diagnostic testing.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes12 guidance points

    Professional Relationships and Partnership Working for Leaders of Adult Social Care Services

    This element focuses on the leader's role in cultivating and sustaining effective professional relationships and collaborative partnerships within adult social care. It covers the principles and practices necessary to engage positively with individuals receiving care, their families, colleagues, and multi-agency professionals to achieve person-centred outcomes. Practical application involves using leadership skills to navigate complex dynamics, promote integrated working, and ensure that all interactions are underpinned by legislation, codes of practice, and ethical standards.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Duty of care in care settings

    This element examines the fundamental obligation of duty of care in healthcare support, focusing on its role in safeguarding individuals and promoting safe, ethical practice. It addresses real-world challenges such as balancing individual autonomy with protection from harm, and provides frameworks for managing complaints and adverse events to foster a culture of openness and continuous improvement.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Prepare individuals for healthcare activities

    This element focuses on the critical knowledge and skills needed to prepare individuals for healthcare activities in a care setting, ensuring their comfort, dignity, and safety. It integrates understanding of relevant legislation (e.g., Mental Capacity Act, Health and Social Care Act), organizational policies, and best practice protocols, while also developing competence in practical preparation tasks and accurate documentation. Mastery of this topic is essential for providing person-centred support and maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Effective communication and building relationships in mental health work

    This subtopic delves into the core principles and practical skills required for effective communication and therapeutic relationship-building within mental health support. It emphasizes person-centred approaches, including empathy, active listening, and professional boundary management, to foster trust and collaboration. Learners apply these competencies to empower individuals, involve carers and families, and enhance recovery outcomes in healthcare settings.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Professional Supervision of Others in Adult Social Care

    Professional supervision in adult social care is a structured process that supports staff development, ensures accountability, and promotes high-quality, person-centred care. It involves regular one-to-one meetings where supervisees reflect on their practice, discuss challenges, and set goals, guided by a competent supervisor using recognised models and frameworks. Effective supervision is integral to leadership and management, enabling continuous improvement and compliance with regulatory standards.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Support individuals to access and use services and facilities

    This element focuses on empowering care professionals to proactively enable individuals to access and use community services and facilities, considering personal, structural, and cultural factors that may pose barriers. It equips learners with the skills to support individuals in making informed choices, navigating access processes, and continuously reviewing the effectiveness of service use to promote independence and well-being.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Principles of Health Promotion

    This subtopic explores the fundamental principles of health promotion within adult care settings, equipping learners with knowledge of the social, economic, and environmental factors that influence health. It emphasizes understanding the processes and models of behaviour change to support individuals in making healthier choices, alongside the critical role of effective, person-centred communication in promoting well-being and preventing ill-health.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Effective communication in care settings

    This element explores the fundamental role of effective communication in delivering person-centred care within healthcare settings. It emphasizes the need to recognize and adapt to diverse communication preferences, including those arising from sensory impairments, language barriers, or cognitive conditions, to ensure individuals are fully understood and involved in their care. Mastery of these skills enables healthcare support workers to uphold dignity, promote autonomy, and comply with legal and ethical standards such as confidentiality and advocacy.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Support individuals to access education, training or employment

    This element focuses on the role of the adult care worker in empowering individuals to engage with education, training, or employment opportunities as part of their person-centred care and support. It covers understanding the legislative and policy framework that promotes inclusion, identifying appropriate support services, and using a structured approach to enable individuals to overcome barriers and achieve their goals. The practical application involves collaborating with the individual to ensure their choices are respected, risks are managed, and progress is evaluated to promote meaningful outcomes.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Principles of positive risk taking for individuals with disabilities

    This element explores how supporting individuals with disabilities to take positive risks is fundamental to promoting independence, dignity, and person-centred outcomes. It examines the balance between empowering choice and ensuring safety, using robust risk assessment processes and relevant legislation such as the Mental Capacity Act and the Care Act. Learners will understand practical strategies for enabling individuals to make informed decisions about risk and for collaboratively managing identified risks.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Support individuals to access housing and accommodation services

    This subtopic equips learners with the knowledge and skills to effectively support adults in navigating the complex landscape of housing and accommodation options. It emphasises a person-centred approach to assess individual needs, facilitate access to suitable services, and maintain collaborative relationships with housing providers to ensure positive outcomes. Mastery of this content is essential for promoting independence, dignity, and well-being in adult care settings.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Enable children and young people to understand their health and wellbeing

    This subtopic focuses on equipping healthcare support workers with the skills to empower children and young people to understand their own health and wellbeing, integrating legislative frameworks, national guidelines, and person-centred approaches. It addresses the practical application of building positive relationships, developing collaborative care plans, and promoting autonomy while respecting safeguarding obligations and the child's developmental stage.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Prepare for and support quality audits

    This element focuses on the practical application of quality management principles in adult care, emphasizing the preparation and active support required during quality audits. It equips learners with the knowledge to understand audit frameworks, gather necessary evidence, and collaborate effectively with auditors to demonstrate compliance and drive service improvement. Mastery ensures care settings maintain high standards and meet regulatory requirements.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Prepare to support individuals within a shared lives arrangement

    This subtopic focuses on the preparatory steps required before supporting an individual through a shared lives arrangement, emphasizing the holistic benefits, effective information handling, and proactive management of impacts on all involved. It equips learners to assess their own competencies and development needs to ensure safe, person-centred support within a family-based care setting.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Support individuals with autistic spectrum conditions

    This subtopic equips learners with the knowledge and skills to provide effective, person-centred support to adults with autistic spectrum conditions (ASC) within care settings. It covers the key legislative frameworks such as the Autism Act 2009 and the Equality Act 2010, the core characteristics of ASC including the triad of impairments, and practical strategies for communication, daily living support, and managing transitions. Mastery of this unit ensures care workers can promote autonomy, dignity, and positive outcomes for individuals with ASC.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Principles of supporting an individual to maintain personal hygiene

    This subtopic focuses on the fundamental role of care workers in promoting hygiene as a key aspect of dignity, health, and wellbeing. Learners explore person-centred approaches to encourage and support individuals with personal care while recognizing that changes in hygiene may signal physical or mental health concerns. The practical application involves balancing respect, privacy, and safety to maintain the individual's independence and self-esteem.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Enable individuals with behaviours that challenge to develop strategies to manage their behaviour

    This subtopic equips health and social care workers with the knowledge and skills to enable individuals who display behaviours that challenge to develop and implement self-management strategies. It emphasises a person-centred approach rooted in positive behaviour support, incorporating legal frameworks, understanding of behavioural triggers, and collaborative development of proactive strategies. The ultimate goal is to enhance the individual's quality of life while minimising the use of restrictive interventions.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Enable mental health service users and carers to manage change

    This element examines the diverse emotional, cognitive, and behavioural reactions individuals with mental health conditions may exhibit when facing change, such as anxiety, resistance, or withdrawal. It emphasises the importance of applying active, person-centred support strategies that empower service users and carers to navigate transitions collaboratively, promoting resilience and informed decision-making in line with recovery principles.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Promote professional development

    This element focuses on the principles and practices of continuous professional development (CPD) within adult care leadership, emphasizing the systematic identification of learning needs, prioritisation of goals aligned with service improvement, and the construction of robust development plans. It requires learners to critically reflect on their own performance and that of their team, using reflective frameworks to drive tangible enhancements in care delivery and regulatory compliance.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Support individuals with multiple conditions and/or disabilities

    This element addresses the complexities of supporting adults with multiple long-term physical, cognitive, sensory, or learning conditions, focusing on holistic, person-centred care that recognises the cumulative and interacting impacts on the individual's daily life. It equips learners to coordinate multi-agency approaches, manage risk, and develop others to deliver integrated support, while critically reviewing service delivery to ensure it meets diverse and evolving needs sustainably.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    6 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Principles of supporting individuals with a learning disability regarding sexuality and sexual health

    This subtopic explores the holistic principles of supporting individuals with learning disabilities in expressing their sexuality and maintaining sexual health, acknowledging their right to intimate relationships while recognizing potential vulnerabilities. It emphasizes the importance of person-centred care that respects dignity, promotes capacity, and addresses the unique developmental, social, and legislative factors influencing sexual wellbeing. Practitioners must be able to balance safeguarding with empowerment, ensuring appropriate education, access to services, and advocacy within legal frameworks such as the Mental Capacity Act and Equality Act.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes16 guidance points2 criteria

    Promoting Individuals’ Health and Wellbeing for Leaders of Adult Social Care Services

    This element equips leaders with the skills to champion a proactive, person-centred approach to health and wellbeing within adult care services. It explores the strategic integration of wellbeing principles into daily practice, emphasizing autonomy, prevention, and holistic support to enhance quality of life for individuals receiving care. Leaders are expected to model and embed a culture that values independence and enables positive outcomes.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes5 guidance points

    Examine the feet of individuals with diabetes

    This subtopic equips healthcare support workers with the essential knowledge and practical skills to safely and effectively examine the feet of individuals with diabetes. It covers best practice guidelines, risk factors for diabetic foot complications, and the correct procedures for preparing, conducting, documenting, and communicating foot health assessments. The focus is on preventing serious complications through early detection of abnormalities and empowering patients with tailored advice on foot care.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Support individuals with sensory loss with communication

    This element focuses on equipping care workers with the knowledge and skills to facilitate effective communication with individuals who have sensory loss, including understanding language development, specialist communication systems, and collaborative working. It emphasises person-centred approaches that respect the individual's preferences and rights, while also considering the ethical and legal frameworks. Learners will explore practical strategies to support both the individual and others in using communication methods, and will learn to evaluate the effectiveness of their communication support.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    6 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Principles of supporting individuals with a learning disability to access healthcare

    This subtopic focuses on equipping care workers with the knowledge to support individuals with learning disabilities in navigating healthcare systems. It covers legal frameworks, healthcare service functions and professional roles, the importance of health action plans and regular checks, and the barriers faced.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Promote positive behaviour

    Promote positive behaviour focuses on applying a person-centred, values-based approach to support individuals in care settings, ensuring compliance with legislation, frameworks, and codes of practice. It involves understanding proactive and reactive strategies, the ethical use of restrictive interventions, and effective responses to challenging incidents, underpinned by continuous review and improvement. Learners must demonstrate the ability to promote dignity, autonomy, and well-being while minimizing restrictive practices and supporting recovery after incidents.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Support people who are providing homes to individuals

    This subtopic equips learners to effectively support adult placement/shared lives carers, focusing on the full lifecycle of a placement from initial assessment and carer preparation through careful matching of individuals to ongoing monitoring and review. It integrates safeguarding, person-centred practice, and regulatory compliance to ensure stable, positive living arrangements for vulnerable adults in family-style settings.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Promoting Personal Wellbeing

    This subtopic equips leaders in adult care to critically evaluate and enhance their own wellbeing, self-care, and resilience. It explores the profound connection between personal resilience, overall health, and professional effectiveness, offering evidence-based strategies to manage stress and anxiety. Mastery of these principles ensures leaders model positive self-care, directly impacting care quality and staff morale.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Give presentations to groups

    This subtopic focuses on the knowledge and skills required to design and deliver effective presentations to groups in healthcare settings, emphasizing adherence to organizational policies, understanding of learning principles, and the ability to facilitate learning through careful planning and engaging delivery. The unit equips learners with the ability to present information clearly and inclusively, ensuring that sessions are tailored to audience needs and evaluated for effectiveness.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Carry out comprehensive substance misuse assessment

    This unit focuses on conducting comprehensive substance misuse assessments, including understanding signs of misuse, preparing for assessment, and following up. It covers risk assessment and referral to appropriate services.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in Adult Care

    This element focuses on the leader's role in embedding equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) within adult care settings to foster social inclusion. It examines how person-centred practice, informed by legislation and best practice, enables individuals to access opportunities, exercise choice, and achieve positive outcomes. Learners explore strategies for identifying and removing barriers, promoting a culture that values differences, and measuring the impact of inclusive practices on wellbeing and independence.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Introduction to mental health, mental ill-health and wellbeing

    This element introduces the fundamental concepts of mental health, mental ill-health, and wellbeing, distinguishing between these terms and exploring their interconnectedness. It examines the impact of stigma on individuals’ experiences, outlines the mental health continuum as a dynamic model, and considers the multifaceted causes and wide-ranging implications of mental ill-health. The content also highlights practical strategies for promoting mental health and preventing ill-health, emphasising early intervention and holistic approaches.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes10 guidance points

    Principles of safeguarding and protection in health and social care

    This subtopic addresses the fundamental principles of safeguarding and protecting adults in health and social care settings, focusing on the recognition of abuse, appropriate response procedures, and the legislative and policy frameworks that govern safeguarding practice. Learners explore how to identify indicators of abuse, understand the national and local context including multi-agency working, and develop strategies to reduce the likelihood of abuse and report unsafe practices effectively. Mastery of this topic ensures workers can uphold the rights, dignity, and safety of vulnerable adults in line with professional standards and legal duties.

    Highfield Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care (RQF), Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care (RQF)

    6 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Promoting Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Human Rights in Adult Social Care Settings

    This element focuses on the core principles of equality, diversity, inclusion, and human rights within adult social care, emphasising their role in delivering person-centred care that respects individual differences and upholds dignity. Learners explore how to embed these values into practice, comply with legal frameworks such as the Equality Act 2010 and Human Rights Act 1998, and access necessary support to challenge discriminatory behaviour effectively.

    Highfield Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Understand how to recognise and respond to substance use/misuse

    This subtopic equips learners with the essential knowledge to identify potential substance misuse through physical, psychological, and behavioural signs, while critically understanding their limitations. It also examines the UK's coordinated multi-agency strategy and the statutory and voluntary services involved in treatment and support. Mastering these concepts enables proportionate, safe, and effective responses in health and social care settings.

    Highfield Level 2 Award In Substance Misuse (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Causes and Spread of Infection

    This element provides foundational knowledge of the biological agents that cause infection, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, and the conditions under which they thrive. It also examines the various transmission routes, such as direct contact, airborne spread, and contaminated surfaces, highlighting the crucial role of understanding these mechanisms in preventing and controlling infections in care settings.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes16 guidance points2 criteria

    Anatomy and physiology for maternity support worker

    This element provides fundamental knowledge of the female reproductive system, breast anatomy, and the physiological adaptations during pregnancy, which are critical for maternity support workers to assist effectively in the care of pregnant women and new mothers. Understanding these structures and changes enables the worker to recognise normal from abnormal signs, support midwives in clinical tasks, and offer evidence-based health information, ultimately promoting safe and holistic maternity care.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Develop and evaluate operational plans for own area of responsibility

    This element requires learners to critically evaluate how their operational plans align with organisational strategy, ensuring efficient resource use and regulatory compliance in adult care settings. Practical application involves developing, implementing, monitoring, and reviewing plans to improve service delivery and outcomes for service users, while fostering team engagement and continuous improvement.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Providing Independent Advocacy to Adults

    This element focuses on equipping lead practitioners with the skills to offer independent advocacy to adults across diverse care settings, championing the individual's rights, preferences, and autonomy. It delves into person-centred communication, supporting informed choice, attending meetings as a facilitator, and maintaining safety and professional boundaries as per regulatory standards. Mastering this ensures advocates act solely in the interests of the individual, empowering them to navigate complex care systems.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Support the development of community partnerships

    This element focuses on enabling adult care practitioners to proactively develop and sustain community partnerships that enhance service delivery. It involves identifying local assets, fostering collaborative networks, and embedding co-production principles to promote person-centred outcomes. Effective community partnerships require skilled facilitation, ongoing engagement, and systematic review to ensure they meaningfully inform practice and improve the well-being of individuals receiving care and support.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Promote Safeguarding and Protection in Care Settings

    This element covers the essential knowledge and skills required to safeguard adults in care settings, including understanding types and indicators of abuse, reporting procedures, and preventative measures. Learners explore legal frameworks, local policies, and the duty of care to protect individuals from harm and promote their wellbeing. It equips care workers with the ability to identify unsafe practices and uphold online safety principles.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Human structure and functionality

    This subtopic covers the anatomical organization and physiological processes of the human body systems, enabling healthcare support workers to recognize normal function and deviations caused by factors like age, disease, or lifestyle. Understanding these fundamentals is crucial for safe and effective person-centred care, monitoring health changes, and communicating accurately with multidisciplinary teams.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Developing effective communication skills for the workplace

    This subtopic focuses on the essential role of effective communication in health, social care, and children’s settings, emphasizing that clear interaction promotes safety, trust, and person-centred support. Learners explore verbal and non-verbal techniques, barriers to communication, and the practical application of skills such as active listening, empathy, and adapting messages to meet individual needs. Mastery of these skills is vital for building professional relationships and ensuring service users feel valued and understood.

    Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    7 learning outcomes23 guidance points3 criteria

    Understand health and safety in social care settings

    This unit covers the fundamental health and safety responsibilities required in adult social care settings, ensuring learners can identify hazards, conduct risk assessments, and implement safe practices to protect individuals and staff. It addresses key areas including infection control, moving and handling, medication, food safety, and stress management, underpinning the delivery of person-centred care within regulatory frameworks such as the Health and Safety at Work Act and CQC standards.

    Highfield Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care (RQF), Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care (RQF)

    9 learning outcomes26 guidance points2 criteria

    Develop procedures and practice to respond to concerns and complaints

    This element focuses on establishing robust systems in adult care settings to manage complaints and concerns effectively, ensuring compliance with regulatory bodies such as the CQC and adherence to local safeguarding protocols. It covers the entire lifecycle from procedure development through to implementation leadership and systematic review, aiming to embed a culture of transparency and continuous improvement that enhances service user safety and care quality.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Develop and implement reablement plans

    This unit equips learners with the knowledge and skills to understand and implement reablement, a short-term intervention designed to help individuals regain or maintain independence in activities of daily living. It covers the philosophy of reablement, the critical role of everyday tasks, and the effective use of multidisciplinary resources. Learners will develop person-centred reablement plans and demonstrate their ability to actively support individuals in achieving their own goals within a supportive framework.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Assist in implementing treatment programmes for individuals with severely reduced movement mobility

    This element focuses on the healthcare support worker's role in assisting with treatment programmes for individuals with severely reduced mobility, emphasising safe practice, adherence to legislation, and understanding of anatomical and physiological implications. It covers how to implement prescribed interventions, monitor progress, and report changes while promoting dignity and independence.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Cleaning, Decontamination and Waste Management

    This element covers essential practices for infection prevention in care settings through effective cleaning, decontamination, and waste management. Learners must grasp the differences between cleaning, sanitisation, and sterilisation, and apply risk-based protocols to protect service users, staff, and visitors from healthcare-associated infections.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Understand solvents and volatile substance abuse

    This element explores the phenomenon of volatile substance abuse (VSA) in the UK, tracing its emergence as a public health concern from the 1970s onwards. It examines the socio-psychological drivers behind use, including peer pressure, curiosity, and coping mechanisms, alongside the physical methods of inhalation and their acute and chronic effects. Learners develop understanding of multi-agency responses, from harm reduction to treatment, to support vulnerable individuals and communities.

    Highfield Level 2 Award In Substance Misuse (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Promoting Health, Safety and Principles of Basic Life Support

    This element ensures learners can promote a safe and healthy environment in adult social care settings by understanding legislative responsibilities, risk assessment, safe moving and handling, accident response including basic life support, medication procedures, hazardous substance management, fire safety, security, and personal wellbeing. It prepares carers to protect service users and themselves from harm, comply with legal duties, and respond effectively in emergencies. Mastery of these principles is essential for high-quality, person-centred care.

    Highfield Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Carry out initial assessments to identify and prioritise the needs of substance misusers.

    This element equips adult care workers with the skills to conduct comprehensive initial assessments of individuals who misuse substances, in order to identify and prioritise their immediate and long-term needs. It covers understanding the pharmacological and psychosocial effects of a wide range of substances, evaluating the individual’s current substance use patterns, their awareness of available support services, and collaboratively determining appropriate interventions. Effective assessment is critical for ensuring individuals are referred promptly to specialist substance misuse services and receive person-centred care that addresses both their substance-related and wider holistic needs.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Introduction to mood disorders and depression

    This element introduces learners to mood disorders, with a primary focus on depression, exploring its profound impact on individuals’ daily functioning, relationships, and overall wellbeing. It clarifies the crucial distinction between transient low mood and clinical depression, equipping learners with foundational knowledge to recognise symptoms and support individuals in health and social care settings.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Health and Safety in Adult Care

    This unit covers health and safety requirements in adult care settings. Learners will understand legal responsibilities and how to maintain a safe environment.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes4 guidance points

    Develop, maintain and use records and reports

    This element focuses on the critical role of accurate, confidential, and legally compliant record-keeping in adult care settings. Learners must demonstrate the ability to produce and maintain records and reports that meet professional standards, and to use them effectively to inform person-centred judgements and decisions.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF), Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    2 learning outcomes16 guidance points2 criteria

    Assist in receiving, handling and dispatching clinical specimens

    This subtopic covers the essential procedures and safety protocols for the receipt, handling, labelling, and dispatch of clinical specimens within a healthcare setting. Learners must demonstrate an understanding of infection prevention measures, the correct use of containers and transport media to maintain specimen integrity, and their role in assisting registered practitioners. Practical competence involves following standard operating procedures to prevent contamination, ensure accurate identification, and comply with legal and regulatory requirements.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Promoting Nutrition and Hydration in Adult Social Care Settings

    This element focuses on ensuring individuals in adult social care settings receive safe, adequate, and person-centred nutrition and hydration. It covers the principles of food safety, including contamination prevention and temperature control, alongside nutritional requirements across the lifespan and for specific health conditions. Learners develop skills to support eating and drinking, monitor intake, and respond to concerns like malnutrition or dehydration, promoting dignity and independence.

    Highfield Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Developing Personal Presentation Skills for the Workplace

    This element focuses on the knowledge and practical skills required to present oneself appropriately in health, social care, and children’s settings. Learners explore the importance of professional appearance, including personal hygiene, appropriate dress, and communication styles, and how these contribute to safety, respect, and positive relationships with service users and colleagues. Practical application involves assessing one’s own presentation and making adjustments to meet workplace standards.

    Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    3 learning outcomes20 guidance points3 criteria

    Understand how to handle information in social care settings

    This element examines the legal and ethical frameworks governing information management in adult social care, including the principles of confidentiality, data protection, and secure record-keeping. It equips learners to apply these principles in practice, ensuring the safety and dignity of individuals while complying with legislation such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018. Understanding how to access support and report concerns is critical to maintaining trust and professionalism in care environments.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care (RQF)

    6 learning outcomes14 guidance points2 criteria

    Introduction to phobias

    This element introduces learners to the concept of phobias, their classification, and their profound impact on an individual's daily functioning and mental wellbeing. It explores common triggers, physiological and psychological responses, and the ways in which phobias can restrict personal, social, and occupational activities. Learners will gain foundational knowledge essential for supportive care and onward referral in mental health settings.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Communication in care settings

    Effective communication is the foundation of person-centred care, ensuring that individual needs, wishes, and preferences are accurately understood and met. This element explores the critical role of communication in building trust, promoting dignity, and supporting wellbeing, while addressing how to overcome common barriers such as sensory loss, language differences, and environmental factors. Learners will develop practical skills to maintain confidentiality in line with legislation and workplace policies, recognising when information must be shared to safeguard individuals.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes7 guidance points

    Understand substance use/misuse

    This subtopic introduces learners to the multifaceted nature of substance use and misuse in the UK, covering statistical trends, societal attitudes, and individual motivations. It examines how drug and alcohol use has evolved historically, influenced by cultural shifts, policy changes, and media portrayal. Emphasis is placed on recognising personal values and their impact on professional practice, fostering non-judgemental, person-centred support.

    Highfield Level 2 Award In Substance Misuse (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Innovation and Change in Adult Care

    This subtopic explores how a clear and compelling vision drives innovation in adult care services, enabling leaders to identify emerging needs and implement creative solutions. It examines the principles of effective change management, including models such as Kotter's 8-Step Process and Lewin's Change Management Model, and their application in overcoming resistance and embedding sustainable improvements. Practical application focuses on aligning service development with regulatory requirements, person-centred outcomes, and workforce engagement to achieve high-quality, compliant care delivery.

    Highfield Level 4 Certificate in Principles of Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Introduction to post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

    This element introduces learners to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. It explores the characteristic symptoms—such as flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety—and examines how PTSD can profoundly affect an individual's daily functioning, relationships, and overall well-being. The element also covers common management strategies, including therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), medication, and support networks, emphasizing the importance of a person-centred approach in health and social care settings.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Developing time-management skills for the workplace

    This subtopic equips learners with essential time-management techniques tailored for the fast-paced health and social care sector. It explores prioritising tasks, meeting deadlines, and adapting to unpredictable demands to ensure safe, effective care delivery. Practical application involves creating schedules, using tools, and maintaining flexibility to support both colleagues and service users efficiently.

    Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    7 learning outcomes22 guidance points3 criteria

    Effective Communication for Leaders of Adult Social Care Services

    This element equips learners with advanced communication skills essential for leading person-centred adult social care services. It covers theoretical models, conflict resolution strategies, and the development of organisational communication practices that promote dignity, autonomy, and positive outcomes for individuals receiving care. Learners will critically reflect on their own communication approaches and lead improvements in team and multi-agency interactions.

    Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Understand person-centred approaches in adult social care settings

    This subtopic introduces the fundamental principles of person-centred care, emphasising the importance of respecting individual preferences and promoting autonomy in adult social care settings. Learners explore practical strategies for implementing person-centred approaches, obtaining valid consent, and encouraging active participation to enhance well-being. The focus is on empowering individuals to make informed choices and maintaining their dignity and rights.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care (RQF), Highfield Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care (RQF)

    7 learning outcomes18 guidance points2 criteria

    Assist in testing individuals’ abilities prior to planning physical activities

    This element equips healthcare support workers with the knowledge and skills to assist practitioners in assessing individuals' physical capabilities prior to planning exercise programmes, ensuring adherence to relevant legislation, policies, and good practice. Learners will explore how diverse health conditions influence physical activity, understand intrinsic and extrinsic motivational factors, and develop practical competencies in preparing individuals, environments, and equipment for assessment, as well as supporting the administration of standardised fitness tests. The focus is on safe, person-centred practice that informs tailored and effective exercise planning.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Healthcare Support (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Understand the safe, sensible and social use of alcohol

    This subtopic examines the principles of safe, sensible and social drinking, contextualising them within the broader landscape of alcohol use and misuse. Learners will explore various drinking styles, their associated harms, societal responses such as licensing laws and public health campaigns, and the specific attitudes and impacts concerning young people. The emphasis is on developing practical awareness to inform advice and support within health and social care roles.

    Highfield Level 2 Award In Substance Misuse (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Promoting Person-Centred Practice in Adult Social Care Settings

    This element focuses on embedding person-centred values into everyday care, ensuring that the individual's preferences, needs, and rights are central to all support activities. Learners will explore practical ways to promote dignity, respect, and autonomy while addressing physical comfort, emotional well-being, and identity. The unit equips care workers with skills to apply person-centred approaches in real-world settings, including supporting individuals with mental capacity limitations.

    Highfield Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Introduction to psychotic disorders

    This element introduces learners to the nature of psychotic disorders, including symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, and thought disorder. It emphasises the profound impact these conditions can have on an individual’s daily functioning, relationships, and overall wellbeing, and explores the importance of person-centred support and early intervention within health and social care settings.

    Highfield Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes6 guidance points

    Effective Teamwork

    Effective teamwork in health and social care settings involves individuals coordinating their efforts to deliver safe, person-centred care. This subtopic focuses on how learners can organise their own workload, actively contribute to team goals, and proactively engage in personal development to enhance service delivery. Practical application includes daily routines, multi-agency working, and reflective practice to meet regulatory standards.

    Highfield Level 1 Award in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF), Highfield Level 1 Diploma in Introduction to Health and Social Care and Children’s and Young People’s Settings (RQF)

    7 learning outcomes20 guidance points3 criteria

    Contribute to support of positive risk-taking for individuals

    This element explores the crucial role of support workers in enabling individuals to make informed choices about taking positive risks, balancing empowerment with safety. It covers person-centred risk assessment, relevant legislation, and the practical application of a duty of care that promotes autonomy rather than restricting it. Learners will understand how to contribute to risk enablement plans and support individuals to manage identified risks in daily life, fostering independence and well-being.

    Highfield Level 2 Diploma in Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    The Principles of Adult Safeguarding

    This element covers the foundational principles and practical application of adult safeguarding within care settings. It equips learners to recognise and respond to abuse and neglect, understand their role in prevention and reporting, and work within legal and local frameworks to protect individuals from harm, including how to balance safety with individual rights and minimise restrictive practices.

    Highfield Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate

    1 learning outcomes9 guidance points

    Facilitate change in health and social care or children and young people’s settings

    This element covers the entire change management cycle within adult care settings, from recognizing the need for change through to evaluating outcomes. Learners will explore theoretical models such as Lewin’s Change Management Model and Kotter’s 8-Step Process, applying them to real-world scenarios to promote person-centred improvements. The practical focus is on engaging stakeholders, overcoming resistance, and ensuring sustainable change that enhances service delivery and outcomes for individuals.

    Highfield Level 4 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF)

    1 learning outcomes8 guidance points

    Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in Care Settings

    This element focuses on the principles and practices of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) within adult care settings, equipping learners to maintain and enhance their competence, engage in reflective practice, and cultivate leadership behaviours. It emphasises the integration of professional standards, self-assessment, and continuous improvement to deliver high-quality, person-centred care and to foster a learning culture.

    Highfield Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care (RQF) (England)

    5 learning outcomes8 guidance points

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    Highfield Qualifications Vocational Health & Social Care