The ProQual Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Healthcare and Social Care Support Skills is an industry-recognized, Ofqual-regulated qualification designed for individuals who want to enhance their expertise in healthcare and social care. This diploma is ideal for professionals looking to advance their careers, take on leadership roles, or deepen their understanding of best practices in care settings.What makes this qualification unique is its entirely assignment-based assessment structure, which allows learners to complete their studies flexibly without the pressure of exams. This makes it an excellent option for working professionals who want to upskill while maintaining their job responsibilities.
The ProQual Level 4 Diploma is regulated by Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) in England. This ensures that the qualification meets strict national standards and is recognized by employers, professional bodies, and regulatory authorities in the healthcare sector. Having an Ofqual-regulated diploma on your CV enhances your credibility and career prospects.
The ProQual Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Healthcare and Social Care Support Skills is a perfect qualification for individuals looking to enhance their knowledge, progress in their careers, and take on leadership roles in the healthcare and social care sectors.
Its Ofqual accreditation, flexible learning format, and assignment-based assessment make it an ideal choice for working professionals who want to achieve career growth without disrupting their work or personal life.
ProQual Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Healthcare and Social Care Support Skills
To achieve the ProQual Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Healthcare and Social Care Support Skills;
Candidates must achieve a minimum of 37 credits:
• a minimum of 19 credits from Optional Group A,
• the remaining credits can be from any combination of units from Optional Group A or Optional Group B
Optional Group A Units
| Sr# | Unit Title | Credit Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | The structure, organisation and function of the human body | 12 |
| 2 | Manage physical resources | 3 |
| 3 | Communication skills for health and social care management | 15 |
| 4 | Empowering users of health and social care services | 15 |
| 5 | Equality and diversity in health and social care | 10 |
| 6 | Evaluate and develop own contribution to the service | 3 |
| 7 | Facilitate learning in groups | 3 |
| 8 | Health and safety in the health and social care workplace | 15 |
| 9 | Health and social care in context | 15 |
| 10 | Influences on health and social care organisations | 15 |
| 11 | Prepare clients through advice and guidance for the implementation of a course of action | 3 |
| 12 | Provide support for other practitioners | 5 |
| 13 | Reflective Practice | 1 |
| 14 | Work in partnership in health and social care or children and young people’s settings | 4 |
| 15 | Understand partnership working | 1 |
| 16 | Understanding professional supervision practice | 3 |
| 17 | Undertake research for the service and its clients | 5 |
| 18 | Use person-centred practices to deliver personalisation in health and social care | 4 |
| 19 | Personal and professional development in health and social care | 15 |
| 20 | Communicating in health and social care organisations | 15 |
| 21 | Physiological Principles for health and social care | 15 |
| 22 | The sociological context of health and social care | 15 |
| 23 | Work in partnership in health and social care | 4 |
| 24 | Promote professional development | 4 |
| 25 | Recruitment and selection within health and social care or children and young people’s settings | 3 |
| 26 | Understand how to manage a team | 3 |
| 27 | Manage induction in health and social care or children and young people’s settings | 3 |
| 28 | Manage finance within own area of responsibility in health and social care or children and young people’s settings | 4 |
Optional Group B Units
| Sr# | Unit Title | Credit Value |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Use and develop systems that promote communication | 3 |
| 2 | Champion equality, diversity and inclusion | 4 |
| 3 | Lead and manage infection prevention and control within the work setting | 6 |
| 4 | Develop health and safety and risk management policies, procedures and practices in health and social care or children and young people’s settings | 5 |
| 5 | Manage quality in health and social care or children and young people’s settings | 5 |
| 6 | Undertake a research project within services for health and social care or children and young people | 10 |
| 7 | Conduct and support others in the assessment of individuals health and well-being | 8 |
| 8 | Promote effective nutrition and fluid balance | 12 |
| 9 | Understand the principles and application of physiological measurements | 12 |
| 10 | Understand the principles, theories and concepts related to leading and developing a work team in a healthcare environment | 8 |
| 11 | Develop professional supervision practice in health and social care or children and young people’s work settings | 5 |
| 12 | Understand child and young person’s development | 6 |
| 13 | Lifespan developments and healthcare needs | 10 |
| 14 | The principles and philosophy of healthcare | 12 |
| 15 | Appraise Staff Performance | 5 |
| 16 | Assess the individual in a health and social care setting | 6 |
| 17 | Principles of health and social care practice | 15 |
| 18 | Share knowledge and good practice | 3 |
| 19 | Understanding Dementia Care | 20 |
| 20 | Facilitate change in health and social care or children and young people‘s settings | 6 |
| 21 | Understanding specific needs in health and social care | 15 |
| 22 | Understanding Deaf culture | 4 |
| 23 | Support individuals with sensory loss with communication | 5 |
| 24 | Support individuals with multiple conditions and/or disabilities | 5 |
| 25 | Promote good practice in the support of individuals with autistic spectrum conditions | 7 |
| 26 | Promote access to healthcare for individuals with learning disability | 6 |
| 27 | Safeguarding and protection of vulnerable adults | 5 |
| 28 | Safeguarding and protection of children and young people | 5 |
| 29 | Develop and evaluate operational plans for own area of responsibility | 6 |
| 30 | Lead the management of transitions | 4 |
| 31 | Understand professional management and leadership in health and social care or children and young people’s settings | 6 |
GLH (Guided Learning Hours) and TQT (Total Qualification Time) are terms commonly used in vocational qualifications to help define the amount of time a learner is expected to spend on their studies.
1. GLH (Guided Learning Hours)
GLH refers to the number of hours a learner spends being directly taught, supervised, or supported during their course. This includes the time spent in activities such as:
- Classroom instruction
- Practical workshops
- One-on-one tutoring or mentoring sessions
- Online learning sessions with tutor support
In other words, GLH represents the time that learners are actively engaged with their instructors or learning activities.
2. TQT (Total Qualification Time)
TQT represents the total amount of time a learner is expected to invest in completing a qualification, including:
- GLH (Guided Learning Hours): Time spent on direct learning, as explained above.
- Self-Directed Learning: This includes time spent on independent study, research, assignment completion, preparation for exams, and any other work the learner does outside of direct teaching hours.
TQT is a broader measure that includes all the time required to achieve the qualification. It helps learners and employers understand the overall commitment required for the qualification.
Key Differences Between GLH and TQT:
- GLH focuses on direct learning with guidance or supervision.
- TQT includes GLH as well as independent study time and other learning-related activities.
Example:
If a qualification has a TQT of 600 hours and a GLH of 250 hours, it means the learner should spend 250 hours in direct learning (classroom, online, or tutor-led sessions) and 350 hours on independent study or research.
Learning Outcomes for Study Units in Health and Social Care
- The Structure, Organisation, and Function of the Human Body
- Understand the fundamental structure of the human body.
- Identify the major organ systems and their functions.
- Explain how body systems work together to maintain homeostasis.
- Manage Physical Resources
- Identify resource needs and allocation strategies.
- Implement cost-effective resource management.
- Evaluate the impact of resource management on service delivery.
- Communication Skills for Health and Social Care Management
- Develop effective communication techniques.
- Overcome barriers to communication in healthcare.
- Use communication to support teamwork and leadership.
- Empowering Users of Health and Social Care Services
- Understand the principles of empowerment.
- Implement strategies to promote autonomy and choice.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of empowerment in care settings.
- Equality and Diversity in Health and Social Care
- Recognize the importance of equality and diversity.
- Implement inclusive practices in care settings.
- Address discrimination and inequality effectively.
- Evaluate and Develop Own Contribution to the Service
- Reflect on personal performance in care settings.
- Identify areas for improvement and professional growth.
- Develop an action plan for skill enhancement.
- Facilitate Learning in Groups
- Plan and deliver group learning activities.
- Engage individuals through interactive learning methods.
- Assess learning outcomes and effectiveness.
- Health and Safety in the Health and Social Care Workplace
- Understand health and safety regulations in care settings.
- Implement risk assessment and hazard control measures.
- Promote a safe working environment.
- Health and Social Care in Context
- Analyze historical and contemporary influences on health and social care.
- Understand policy developments affecting care services.
- Evaluate the role of health and social care in society.
- Influences on Health and Social Care Organisations
- Identify factors shaping health and social care organisations.
- Assess the impact of policies on service delivery.
- Implement strategies for organisational improvement.
- Prepare Clients Through Advice and Guidance for the Implementation of a Course of Action
- Provide appropriate advice to service users.
- Develop individual action plans based on needs.
- Support clients in implementing care recommendations.
- Provide Support for Other Practitioners
- Collaborate with colleagues in care settings.
- Offer mentorship and guidance to new practitioners.
- Support professional development within teams.
- Reflective Practice
- Develop skills for self-reflection in healthcare.
- Identify key learning experiences from practice.
- Apply reflective models to enhance care provision.
- Work in Partnership in Health and Social Care or Children and Young People’s Settings
- Understand the benefits of partnership working.
- Implement strategies for effective collaboration.
- Evaluate the impact of partnerships on service users.
- Understand Partnership Working
- Define partnership working and its importance.
- Identify key stakeholders in health and social care.
- Develop strategies for maintaining effective partnerships.
- Understanding Professional Supervision Practice
- Recognize the role of supervision in professional development.
- Implement supervision techniques to support staff.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of supervision practices.
- Undertake Research for the Service and Its Clients
- Develop research skills for healthcare settings.
- Apply research findings to improve service delivery.
- Evaluate the impact of research on care practices.
- Use Person-Centred Practices to Deliver Personalisation in Health and Social Care
- Understand the principles of person-centred care.
- Implement individualised care plans.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of person-centred approaches.
- Personal and Professional Development in Health and Social Care
- Develop strategies for continuous professional growth.
- Identify training opportunities to enhance skills.
- Reflect on personal and professional achievements.
- Communicating in Health and Social Care Organisations
- Recognize the importance of communication in healthcare.
- Develop effective verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
- Address communication barriers in diverse care settings.
- Physiological Principles for Health and Social Care
- Understand basic physiological principles.
- Apply physiological knowledge to patient care.
- Assess the impact of physiological changes on health.
- The Sociological Context of Health and Social Care
- Analyze sociological theories related to health and social care.
- Understand the impact of social factors on health.
- Implement strategies to address social inequalities in care.
- Work in Partnership in Health and Social Care
- Promote effective teamwork in care environments.
- Understand roles and responsibilities within partnerships.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of collaborative working.
- Promote Professional Development
- Support ongoing learning within care teams.
- Implement training programs to enhance skills.
- Assess the impact of professional development initiatives.
- Recruitment and Selection Within Health and Social Care or Children and Young People’s Settings
- Understand recruitment processes in healthcare.
- Implement fair and inclusive hiring practices.
- Evaluate recruitment strategies for effectiveness.
- Understand How to Manage a Team
- Develop leadership skills in healthcare.
- Implement strategies for team motivation and engagement.
- Evaluate team performance and make improvements.
- Manage Induction in Health and Social Care or Children and Young People’s Settings
- Design and implement effective induction programs.
- Support new staff in adapting to healthcare settings.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of induction programs.
- Manage Finance Within Own Area of Responsibility in Health and Social Care or Children and Young People’s Settings
- Understand financial management principles.
- Implement budgeting and cost-control strategies.
- Evaluate financial performance in care settings.
Benefits of the ProQual Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Healthcare and Social Care Support Skills
Here are the benefits of taking the ProQual Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Healthcare and Social Care Support Skills:
1. Career Advancement
- Enhances your qualifications, making you eligible for senior roles in healthcare and social care settings.
- Opens doors to leadership, supervisory, and management positions.
2. Improved Skills & Knowledge
- Develops advanced skills in healthcare and social care, including patient care, safeguarding, and communication.
- Increases knowledge of policies, procedures, and regulations within the sector.
3. Better Employment Opportunities
- Recognized qualification that improves employability in hospitals, care homes, and community care settings.
- Increases chances of higher pay and job stability.
4. Meets Industry Standards
- Accredited by ProQual, ensuring it meets industry requirements for professional development.
- Aligns with national healthcare and social care guidelines.
5. Flexible Learning
- Can be completed while working, allowing professionals to enhance their qualifications without disrupting their jobs.
- Suitable for those already in healthcare or looking to transition into the field.
6. Personal & Professional Development
- Boosts confidence in handling complex healthcare and social care scenarios.
- Enhances leadership, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
7. Pathway to Higher Education
- Can serve as a stepping stone to higher-level qualifications, such as Level 5 or university degrees in healthcare and social care.
The ProQual Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Healthcare and Social Care Support Skills is best suited for individuals who are already working in or looking to advance their careers in healthcare and social care. The following professionals would benefit the most from this qualification:
1. Experienced Healthcare and Social Care Workers
- Healthcare assistants, support workers, and care workers aiming for senior or supervisory roles.
- Professionals who want to develop advanced skills in patient care, safeguarding, and healthcare management.
2. Senior Carers & Team Leaders
- Individuals already in leadership roles who need a formal qualification to validate their experience.
- Care home team leaders, domiciliary care supervisors, and senior healthcare assistants.
3. Aspiring Managers in Health & Social Care
- Those planning to move into management positions within hospitals, nursing homes, or social care organizations.
- Ideal for those aiming for roles such as care coordinator, service manager, or deputy manager.
4. Individuals Seeking Career Progression
- Healthcare professionals wanting to expand their knowledge of policies, regulations, and best practices.
- Those who want to gain formal recognition for their skills and experience.
5. Professionals Looking for Higher Education Pathways
- Learners who want to progress to Level 5 Diplomas or university degrees in health and social care.
- A stepping stone for those considering nursing, social work, or allied healthcare professions.
Entry Requirements
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Qualification Process
Qualification Process for the ProQual Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Healthcare and Social Care Support Skills
- Self-Assessment:
Begin by evaluating your eligibility to ensure you meet the qualification requirements, including work experience, knowledge, and language proficiency. - Registration:
Complete your registration by submitting the required documents, including a scanned copy of a valid ID, and paying the registration fee. - Induction:
An assessor will conduct an induction to confirm your eligibility for the course and explain the evidence requirements. If you do not meet the criteria, your registration will be canceled, and the fee will be refunded. - Assignmnets & Evidence Submission:
Provide all assignmnets and the necessary evidence based on the assessment criteria outlined in the course. If you are unsure of the required evidence, consult with the assessor for guidance on the type and nature of evidence needed. - Feedback and Revision:
The assessor will review your submitted evidence and provide feedback. Evidence that meets the criteria will be marked as “Criteria Met,” while any gaps will be identified. You will be asked to revise and resubmit if needed. - Competence Evidence:
Submit final evidence demonstrating that all learning outcomes have been met. This evidence will be marked as “Criteria Met” by the assessor once it is satisfactory. - Internal Quality Assurance (IQA):
The Internal Quality Assurance Verifier (IQA) will review your evidence to ensure consistency, quality, and compliance with standards. - External Verification:
The IQA will submit your portfolio to ProQual’s External Quality Assurance Verifiers (EQA) for final confirmation. The EQA may contact you directly to verify the authenticity of your evidence. - Certification:
Upon successful completion of all checks, ProQual will issue your official certificate, confirming that you have attained the ProQual Level 4 Diploma in Advanced Healthcare and Social Care Support Skills.
