Launching August 2026: the NCFE CACHE Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry in Social Care (Diploma).
Recent qualification reforms have limited routes into health and social care, leaving some learners without a clear next step.
With adult social care identified by Skills England’s as one of the UK’s most in-demand areas, we’re proud to stand by the social care sector and announce NCFE’s brand-new Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry in Social Care (Diploma).
We're delighted to confirm this is approved for funding until at least the 2027/28 academic session.
Designed primarily for 16–19 study programmes, this new TOQ provides a meaningful and supported pathway into this vital sector.
NCFE is the only awarding body with approved qualifications in this area, reaffirming our commitment to ensuring clear routes into Health and Social Care.
Coinciding with the launch of this new qualification all existing large level 3 qualifications in health and social will be defunded. This includes:
This means that from the academic year 2026/27, there will be two approved large level 3 qualifications in this sector: The Health T Level and our new diploma.
NCFE's Technical Education Project Manager, David Rowley, outlines everything you need to know about this new qualification in a short introduction video.
☑ Equivalent to 3 A levels. Designed for 16–19 study programmes with 1080 guided learning hours, it is the natural successor to our current Extended Diplomas in Health and Social Care (601/6110/3 and 601/8435/8).
☑ An inclusive alternative to T Levels. The TOQ offers a more accessible, inclusive alternative that’s just as credible and far more flexible, sitting alongside the Health T Level to cater to a wider range of learners.
☑ Created with employers for the real world. Built around employer-led occupational standards, meaning it’s shaped by what the care sector needs.
☑ Recognised by universities to support progression. With a significant number of UCAS points, it provides access to social work and adult nursing degrees, while also preparing learners for direct entry into the health and social care workforce. (E.G. Distinction = 144, Distinction* = 168)
☑ Multiple funding routes available. Eligible for 16 to 19 Level 3 Legal Entitlement, Advanced Learner Loans and Free Courses for Jobs from August 2026.
☑ Designed for delivery with low admin burden. No external assessment gives you greater flexibility and autonomy to personalise delivery for your learners.
☑ Manageable placement expectations. Shape work-based learning around your learners and local industry partnerships.
If you're already delivering NCFE’s Health and Social Care qualifications, the TOQ is a natural continuation. We’ll help you embed it into your curriculum with confidence.
If changes with your current awarding organisation have left your learners without a clear progression option through Health and social care, we’re here to support the switch.
