Standard mode
Study at your own pace with full tutor support
£950
Complete fee
- Duration: 9 months
- Start dates: Flexible start dates
Undergraduate diplomaNQual
Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare
NQual Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare — professional qualification for practitioners supporting children and young people in residential settings.
- Duration
- 9 Months, 6 Months
- Credits
- 61 credits
- Level
- Level 3
- Awarding body
- NQual
Tuition from £950£1,050(fast track £1,250)
Duration
9 Months, 6 Months
Credits
61 credits
Awarding body
NQual
Level
Level 3
Programme overview
This qualification is awarded by NQual, an Ofqual-recognised UK awarding organisation. UK School of Management (UKSM) is an approved NQual centre, delivering this programme fully online with structured tutor support.
The Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare prepares practitioners to deliver high-quality, therapeutic care for children and young people living in residential settings. The programme covers child development, safeguarding, behaviour support, and collaborative working with families and professionals.
This NQual qualification is suited to residential childcare workers, support workers, and practitioners seeking a regulated qualification to work in children's homes and similar registered settings across England.
UKSM delivers the programme fully online with structured tutor support and portfolio-based assessment, allowing you to study while employed in or preparing for residential childcare practice.
Course modules
Units typically cover:
- Supportive relationships and communication in residential childcare
- Health, safety and security in residential childcare settings
- Safeguarding and child protection
- Supporting development, social skills and resilience in children and young people
- Supporting children and young people who have experienced harm or abuse
- Professional development in residential childcare
Detailed unit requirements are provided on enrolment according to the current NQual specification.
Assessment
The evaluation process is conducted through the submission of assignments, and there are no written examinations involved.
Entry requirements
- Minimum age 18 (19 recommended)
- Experience or employment in a children and young people's setting is recommended
- Enhanced DBS check will be required for practice in registered settings
- English language skills sufficient for Level 3 study
Why study this course?
Graduates can progress in registered residential childcare services for children and young people.
- Residential childcare practitioner
- Children's home support worker
- Senior residential support worker
- Residential childcare team member
Fee and payment plans
Duration & course fee
Choose the study mode that fits your schedule and career goals.
Fast track
Intensive schedule, ideal for working professionals
£1,250
Complete fee
- Duration: 6 months
- Start dates: Fixed cohort intakes
Fees quoted above represent the full programme cost. There are no additional or hidden charges.
• This programme does not have any additional costs.
• The fee is payable in monthly, quarterly, or half yearly instalments.
• Flexible payment plans are available.
• You can avail a 5% bursary if you pay the full fee upfront in 1 instalment.
Payment plans
9 months @ GBP £950
- •Flexible monthly, quarterly and half-yearly payment plans available. Contact admissions for details.
6 months @ GBP £1250
- •Payment option (a): GBP £125 x 10 monthly instalments
- •Payment option (b): GBP £313 x 4 quarterly instalments
- •Payment option (c): GBP £1,250 x 1 instalment (We offer 5% bursary on total fee for students opting to pay in full)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare take?
The Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare can be completed in 9 Months, 6 Months. UKSM offers standard and fast-track study modes, so you can choose a pace that fits your schedule.
Is the Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare accredited?
Yes. The Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare is awarded by NQual and is quality-assured for recognition by UK employers and international organisations.
What are the entry requirements for Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare?
Minimum age 18 (19 recommended) Experience or employment in a children and young people's setting is recommended Enhanced DBS check will be required for practice in registered settings English language skills sufficient for Level 3 study
How much does the Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare cost?
Course fees start from £950. Flexible monthly, quarterly, and half-yearly payment plans are available — see the Fee and Payment Plans section for full pricing.
Can I study Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare while working full-time?
Yes. The Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare is delivered fully online with flexible scheduling, making it ideal for working professionals who need to balance study with employment.
What qualification will I receive after completing Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare?
On successful completion, you will receive the Level 3 Diploma in Residential Childcare, awarded by NQual. This supports career progression and further academic study.