Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care

Introduction

The Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship in Health and Social Care is designed for individuals who are employed in the sector and working in roles that involve leading practice and supporting others. It is suitable for those who already hold significant experience at Level 3 and are ready to take on more advanced responsibilities in practice leadership.

This apprenticeship develops the knowledge and skills required to lead and promote high-quality, person-centred practice, support teams in delivering effective care, and apply current legislation, policy and professional standards. Learners will be expected to critically reflect on their own practice, contribute to service improvement, and model professional behaviours that support best outcomes for individuals receiving care and support.

Assessment is workplace-based, ensuring that all evidence reflects the learner’s role in practice leadership. Completion of the qualification provides progression opportunities into senior practice roles or further study at Level 5.

Requirements

How it is achieved

Learners complete a structured programme combining:

• On-the-job experience
  

  • Leading teams to provide high-quality care and support.

  • Managing aspects of compliance with policies, legislation, and regulation.

  • Taking responsibility for supervising others and supporting their professional development.
    

• Core learning outcomes
  

  • Leadership and management skills to coordinate and motivate teams.

  • Strategic planning to improve service delivery and outcomes.

  • Implementing safeguarding and quality assurance processes.

  • Working collaboratively with professionals and agencies across health and social care.

  • Developing reflective, evidence-based practice at an advanced level.
    

• Essential Skills Wales (ESW)
  Alongside the main qualification, apprentices complete ESW qualifications to support wider employability (unless already achieved at this level):
  

  • Application of Number (numeracy skills)

  • Communication (reading, writing, speaking & listening)
    

• Assessment methods
  

  • Work-based projects and case studies.

  • Professional discussions exploring knowledge, leadership, and reflective practice.

  • Portfolio of evidence showing advanced competence.

  • Assignments focusing on leadership and service improvement.
    

• Duration

  Typically takes 18–24 months to complete.
  

• Level 4 Health & Social Care: Professional Practice (Wales).

• Essential Skills Wales in Application of Number and Communication (if not already achieved at the appropriate level).

• Fully funded for eligible learners by the Welsh Government.

After completion, learners can progress to:

• Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship in Health & Social Care: Advanced Practice or Management & Leadership

• Senior and specialist roles such as Registered Manager, Service Manager, Advanced Practitioner.

• Further higher education in health, social care, or leadership disciplines.