You could do a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in health and social care management.

With your degree you can apply for graduate schemes.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

You may be able to do a higher apprenticeship in adult care or children, young people and families manager.

You could then find work and train more on the job.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

If you work in social care, you can apply to join a manager course.

We recommend you start the Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Health and Social Care and Children and Young People's Services within 3 months of starting your job. You'll need to complete it within 2 to 3 years.

You'll choose a pathway relating to either adults or children and young people.

You'll need:

• counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
• customer service skills
• sensitivity and understanding
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to understand people’s reactions
• to enjoy working with other people
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• knowledge of psychology
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks

As an adult care home manager you may:

• provide information, advice and support to residents, families and staff
• help residents access local services
  
• monitor business performance and quality of care
• agree contracts, budgeting and fundraising
• develop policies and keep private information confidential

As a children's home manager you may:

• look after the children in your care
• make sure that wellbeing standards are met
• help children access local education and health services
• take part in care planning, statutory case reviews and conferences
  
• respond to child protection concerns and complaints
  

You could work at an adult care home or at a children's care home.

Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding.