Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (England) (RQF)
For Current and Aspiring Leaders in Children’s Residential Services
This diploma is fully accredited by Highfield Qualifications.

- Course Fee: £1,295
- Duration: 12 to 24 months (flexible, self-paced)
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About Our Training
Course Overview
The Highfield Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Residential Childcare (RQF)Â is a specialist, Ofqual-regulated qualification tailored for those working in or preparing for leadership roles within residential childcare settings.
This qualification is the mandatory requirement for those looking to become a Registered Manager of a children’s home in England, as set by Ofsted. It develops advanced knowledge and practical skills in safeguarding, trauma-informed care, behaviour support, team leadership, compliance, and quality improvement — all through a child-centred, therapeutic lens.
Who Is This Qualification For?
This course is ideal for:
- Deputy Managers or Team Leaders in children’s homes
- Registered Managers or aspiring Registered Managers
- Senior Residential Support Workers
- Practitioners seeking Ofsted-compliant qualifications
- Professionals responsible for supervising, safeguarding, and leading child-focused services
Assessment Method
This is a workplace-based qualification assessed entirely through: ✔ Direct Observation
✔ Reflective Practice and Accounts
✔ Assignments and Projects
✔ Professional Discussions
✔ Portfolio of Evidence
✔ Witness Testimonies
✔ Research and Critical Analysis
✅ No written exam – All evidence is drawn from real-life practice and tailored to your role.
Course Delivery & Duration
Delivery Format | Blended: Online Learning + Assessor-Led Support |
Typical Duration | 12 to 24 months (flexible, self-paced) |
Start Date | Enrol any time – start immediately |
Support | Dedicated 1-to-1 Assessor + Full Online Access |
What You Will Achieve
By completing this course, you will:
- Gain a Level 5 leadership qualification required by Ofsted for Registered Managers
- Build advanced skills in managing complex behaviours, safeguarding, compliance, and regulation
- Lead teams, shape policy, and improve outcomes for children and young people
- Qualify for roles such as Registered Manager, Deputy Manager, or Children’s Services Lead
- Meet statutory requirements under the Children’s Homes Regulations and Quality Standards
Course Fee
🎓 Total Cost: £1,295 – All Inclusive
Includes:
- Registration & Certification
- E-portfolio Access
- Tutor & Assessor Support
- Progress Tracking & Review
💳 Flexible Payment Options:
- Pay in full or
- Monthly instalments (no credit checks)
FAQs
What is an RQF qualification?
RQF stands for Regulated Qualifications Framework. It replaced QCF and NVQ and ensures the course meets modern standards for care and leadership training.
Do I get support throughout the course?
Yes! You’ll have:
- A personal course assessor
- 24/7 access to our dedicated diploma support team
Can I pay in instalments or get a group discount?
Yes. Discounts are available for bulk enrolments. Speak to an advisor to discuss your options.
Course Structure
To achieve the full diploma, learners must complete a minimum of 65 credits through a combination of mandatory and optional units.
Core Mandatory Units Include:
1.Lead and manage a team in residential childcare
2.Lead practice to support the safeguarding and protection of children and young people in residential childcare
3.Lead practice for communication and information management in residential childcare settings
4.Understand the development of children and young people in residential childcare
5.Support children and young people who are vulnerable and at risk
6.Lead practice to achieve positive outcomes for children and young people
7.Manage risk in residential childcare settings
8.Lead and manage group living
9.Lead practice to promote the health and wellbeing of children and young people
10.Implement a positive behaviour management strategy
11.Lead practice to support the achievement of educational outcomes
12.Develop professional supervision practice
13.Lead and manage the inspection process in residential childcare
14.Undertake a research project relevant to residential childcare
Why Choose Hilmas Care Training?
We support individuals and care organisations across the UK by delivering workplace training that enhances safety, productivity, and wellbeing. All our courses are fully accredited and aligned with current regulatory frameworks, so you can rest assured you’re in expert hands.
Industry Recognised Training
All our diploma programmes are delivered through a flexible e-portfolio system, ensuring learners gain occupational competence while working at their own pace. With every course fully accredited, you can be confident you're receiving industry-recognised training that meets the highest standards.
Training That Works Around You
We offer flexible training options, including evening, weekend, and online delivery. With a dedicated account manager assigned to every client, we go beyond box-ticking – we build partnerships that support long-term workforce development.
Trusted Accreditation & Quality Assurance
All our Diplomas are accredited by Ofqual-recognised awarding bodies, including Highfield Qualifications and focus award.
Study from Anywhere – Learn at Your Pace
We now offer full distance learning and online e-portfolio access for our diploma learners. Our experienced assessors provide personalised support, ensuring you stay on track, motivated, and confident from enrolment to certification.

Need Help Enrolling?
Call our 24/7 Freephone: Â 0161 222 9005
Or, fill in the quick form below and one of our training advisors will get back to you:
Hilmas Training – Your Trusted Healthcare Training Provider
Address
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- Sunday: Closed
- Phone: 01612229005
- Whatsapp: 07438470844
- Email: support@hilmastraining.co.uk
Our Accreditations & Certifications
Hilmas Training take pride in offering high-quality, fully accredited training that meets industry standards and regulatory requirements. Our courses are recognized, approved, and trusted by leading awarding bodies, ensuring that our learners receive certifications that are valued by employers in the healthcare sector.