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Kate Hutchinson -
2 June, 2025
With the introduction of the new Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate in 2024, care providers and staff are now faced with a crucial question: Which qualification is right for my team?
At a glance, both the Certificate and the Level 2 Diploma in Care offer valuable routes into and through the adult social care sector. But their purposes, content, and outcomes differ in meaningful ways - and understanding those differences is key to making the best choice for your workforce.
In this article, we break down the core distinctions between the two qualifications, helping you confidently select the option that aligns with your organisation’s goals - whether that’s rapid onboarding, deeper competence, or long-term career development.
A comprehensive comparison:
|
Feature |
New Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate |
Level 2 Diploma in Care |
|
Purpose |
Standardised induction qualification for new entrants to care |
Full vocational qualification demonstrating occupational competence |
|
Status |
New regulated qualification (2024) as part of the Care Workforce Pathway |
Established regulated qualification (RQF) |
|
Regulated by |
Ofqual (developed with Skills for Care & DHSC) |
Ofqual |
|
Who it's for |
New starters, entry-level care workers |
Existing care staff or those developing into more complex roles |
|
Duration |
~3–6 months (quicker route into sector) |
~6-8 months (deeper, more comprehensive) |
|
Content |
Core standards: person-centred care, values, communication, safeguarding, working in care |
Broader range: includes everything in the Certificate, plus duty of care, dementia, end-of-life care, professional development |
|
Assessment |
Formal assessment (regulated qualification) with practical observation and knowledge checks |
Portfolio-based with workplace observations, written work, optional units |
|
Funding eligibility |
Yes – via LDSS reclaim only. Full cost paid by employer up front and reimburses at a 60% on start 40% on completion- Risk to employer if staff member leaves |
Yes – via ASF funding. 100% supported funds |
|
Progression route |
Progression to Level 2 Diploma or Level 3 Lead Adult Care Worker Apprenticeship |
Progression to Level 3 Diploma, senior care roles, and specialist pathways |
|
CQC/Employer recognition |
Meets new induction expectations under workforce strategy |
Recognised as evidence of full competence in a role |
Making an informed decision
Both the Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate and the Level 2 Diploma in Care offer significant strengths, but they serve different purposes. Choosing the right route can make all the difference in supporting staff confidence, competence, and career progression.
At Realise, we believe in the principle of right learner, right programme. To help you make that decision, here’s a quickfire breakdown of each qualification - what they offer, who they’re best for, and how they can support your setting’s long-term goals.
The advantages of the new Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate are…
- ✅ Nationally standardised – replaces variability in the old Care Certificate
- ✅ Accelerated learning – ideal for onboarding new care staff quickly
- ✅ Clear alignment to the new Care Workforce Pathway
- ✅ Funded and regulated, providing a formal qualification at the induction stage
- ✅ Builds confidence, competence, and employability early on
The advantages of the Level 2 Diploma in Care are…
- ✅ Full occupational competence qualification
- ✅ Includes optional units tailored to specific settings or client needs (e.g. dementia, autism, learning disabilities)
- ✅ Strong foundation for career progression and supervisory roles
- ✅ Recognised and well-established with employers and the Care Quality Commission (CQC)
Which One Should You Choose?
|
Situation |
Recommended Qualification |
|
"I have new hires that are new to the sector and need an induction" |
Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate (if the employer has the investment to align a process) |
|
"My current staff are building a career in care and working independently" |
Level 2 Diploma in Care |
|
"We are looking to standardise our onboarding quickly" |
Level 2 Adult Social Care Certificate (if the employer has the investment to align a process) |
|
"We want our staff to progress to senior or lead roles" |
Level 2 Diploma in Care |
At a Glance
- Certificate = Induction
- Fast, funded, and standardised
- Ideal for new entrants and onboarding
- Diploma = Competence
- Deeper, role-based qualification
- Ideal for career development and progression
How Realise Can Help
At Realise, we are delivering both qualifications in line with the national workforce strategy.
Whether you're a care provider seeking a streamlined induction offer or supporting experienced staff toward leadership roles, we offer:
- Flexible delivery (face-to-face, remote, blended)
- Experienced sector-specialist tutors
- Funding advice and workforce planning support
- Progression pathways tailored to the Care Workforce Pathway
📩 Contact us to support your team’s learning journey - from entry to excellence.
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