Health and Social Care - NVQ levels 2 and 3

Registration at levels 2 and 3 is required for people who work in residential homes, day centres, domiciliary care.

The qualification

NVQ is a work-based skills qualification for those working in a social care setting. Candidates build up a portfolio of evidence demonstrating their competence to carry out work tasks which focus on different aspects of their day to day practice.

The levels

The level at which a candidate registers is determined solely by the level and scope of their job role. Generally, people who have supervisory responsibilities register at level 3. Completion of a level 2 award does not automatically qualify a candidate to register at level 3 unless the candidates job role has altered to reflect the roles, responsibilities and skills required to build a portfolio to match the requirements of the level 3 award.

The Learning and Development team can provide Managers with advice as to which level a candidate should attempt the award in relation to their position.

Please do not hesitate to contact Jennifer Orgill on 0207 926 4834 if you require any guidance.

Course structure

The aim of the qualification is to recognise candidates' achievements. Working for an NVQ should not be regarded as training - rather as confirmation of particular skills at the time the assessment was carried out.

Candidates for the NVQ 2 qualification must study four core units and two optional units.

The four key units are

• Communicate and complete records for individuals
• Support the health and safety of yourself and individuals
• Develop your knowledge and practice
• Ensure your own actions support the care, protection and well being of individuals

Candidates for the NVQ 3 must study four core units and four optional units

The four key units are:

• Promote effective communication for and about individuals
• Promote, monitor and maintain health, safety and security in the work environment
• Reflect and develop your practice
• Promote choice, well-being and the protection of individuals

Nominations for the next cohort of NVQ 2 and 3 close on 6 February 2009 – contact the Learning and Development Team for more information.

Booking Information

For further information and to book places contact Jennifer Orgill on jorgill@lambeth.gov.uk  or 020 7926 4834. The course is offered free of charge to Lambeth’s social care partners in the third sector.

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Lambeth Council meets the Investors in People Standard.