NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care

For the NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care, learners must meet the following requirements:

• The learner must be aged 19 years or above.
• There are no formal academic entry requirements for this qualification.
• Good understanding of ICT
• Non-native English speakers must demonstrate a minimum level of English language competency*.
• Must be working in an appropriate adult care setting and have a role that allows them to demonstrate leadership and management responsibilities.
• The learner must have access to the workplace, relevant resources, and assessment opportunities required to meet the unit outcomes.
• It is recommended that the learner has a minimum of Level 2 literacy and numeracy skills (or equivalent).
• Should be able to demonstrate prior achievement at Level 3 or Level 4, or have equivalent professional experience in adult care.
• Show sufficient capability to meet the learning and assessment criteria at Level 5.

These requirements ensure that learners are well prepared to succeed in the qualification and apply their leadership and management skills effectively within adult social care settings.

For further information, please click here and find out the clear guidelines.

*A learner not from a majority English-speaking country must provide evidence of English language competency. For more information, visit Language Expectations.

The NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care is for people working in adult social care who want to step into leadership, grow into management, or progress into senior roles. It is ideal for Registered Managers, Deputy Managers, Team Leaders, Senior Care Workers, and experienced care professionals ready to take on greater responsibility. This course also suits learners preparing for the Level 5 Leader in Adult Care Apprenticeship or anyone looking to build strong leadership skills, improve care quality, and meet regulatory standards while moving their career forward.

Progression Routes

Achievement of this qualification confirms the learner has gained the knowledge and skills required to:

• Function as a well-trained leader in adult care.
• Progress on to further learning at Level 6 and beyond.
• Complete the Mandated Qualification Requirement for the Level 5 Leader in Adult Care Apprenticeship.

The NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care has been recognised by NOCN and has its own unique Qualification Accreditation Number (QAN: 610/3512/9). You can verify this qualification on the Ofqual Register of Regulated Qualifications. This fully accredited qualification is regulated by Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation), ensuring that vocational qualifications meet national standards, maintain credibility, and deliver consistent, high-quality learning outcomes.
NOCN, as an awarding body approved and regulated by Ofqual (Reference Number RN5194), operates robust quality assurance processes to uphold these standards. Inspire London College offers this qualification through NOCN, ensuring it aligns with current health and social care requirements.

The NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care includes units that are internally set and assessed, allowing learners to show both knowledge and practical skills in real workplace settings. Knowledge is assessed through written tasks, case studies, and reflective accounts, while skills are assessed through observations, professional discussions, and evidence of applied practice. This ensures learners meet the requirements of leadership roles in adult social care.

Inspire London College ensures learning is delivered at Level 5 standard and gives learners opportunities to produce meaningful, work-based evidence. All assessments are checked by the Internal Quality Assurance (IQA) team to make sure they are fair, inclusive, and fit for purpose. Assessors judge evidence based on its authenticity, relevance, and reliability, ensuring consistency and accuracy for all learners. The assessment process follows the NOCN Quality Assurance Manual, supporting high standards, reliable outcomes, and learner success while meeting all NOCN and sector requirements.