Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare Settings - Level 2

Summary

Do you want to play a crucial role in maintaining health and safety within healthcare settings? This qualification equips you with essential knowledge and skills to prevent and control infections, ensuring a safer environment for patients and healthcare professionals alike. This course is designed for individuals who are passionate about healthcare and wish to understand the principles of infection prevention and control. By completing this qualification, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of how infections spread, the importance of personal hygiene, and effective methods for decontamination and waste management.

Next course dates

Start date Location Duration
23 Jan 2026
Community Based
9 Weeks
23 Jan 2027
Community Based
9 Weeks

Where can this subject lead?

Career progression

The NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of the Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare Settings opens doors to a variety of roles within the health and social care sector. This qualification is an essential step for those aspiring to contribute significantly to infection control and patient safety.

This course is part of the Health and Social Care Pathway, which includes a series of qualifications designed to enhance your skills and knowledge:

HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE PATHWAY

NCFE L2 CERT PERSONAL CARE NEEDS

NCFE L2 CERT PRINCIPLES OF THE PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF INFECTION IN HEALTH CARE SETTINGS

NCFE L2 CERT UNDERSTANDING MEDICATION HEALTH SOCIAL CARE

NCFE L2 CERT UNDERSTANDING DIGNITY AND SAFEGUARDING

Completing this course can lead to advanced qualifications and specialised roles, enhancing employability and providing opportunities for career progression in the sector.

Next steps at B&FC

Upon successful completion of the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of the Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare Settings, students can progress to the following B&FC courses:

HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE PATHWAY

NCFE L2 CERT PERSONAL CARE NEEDS

NCFE L2 CERT PRINCIPLES OF THE PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF INFECTION IN HEALTH CARE SETTINGS

NCFE L2 CERT UNDERSTANDING MEDICATION HEALTH SOCIAL CARE

NCFE L2 CERT UNDERSTANDING DIGNITY AND SAFEGUARDING

These courses provide further opportunities to deepen your knowledge and skills, enhancing your career prospects in the health and social care sector. 

Completing these qualifications can lead to advanced studies and specialised roles. You can progress to:

  • Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care
  • Foundation Degree in Health and Social Care 

Other study options

n/a

Employment Opportunities

Upon completing the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of the Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare Settings, students can pursue various entry-level positions in the health and social care sector. Potential job titles include:

  • Healthcare Assistant
  • Support Worker
  • Care Assistant
  • Infection Control Assistant
  • Clinical Support Worker
  • Home Care Worker
  • Residential Care Worker

These roles are essential in maintaining high standards of hygiene and safety in healthcare environments, ensuring the well-being of patients and staff. This qualification provides a solid foundation to help you succeed.

Key information

Entry Requirements

Technical Entry Requirements:

  • Age: 19 years or over (19+)

Additional Non-Qualification-Based Entry Requirements:

  • DBS Check: While a DBS check is not required for enrolment on the course, it is essential for those seeking employment working with vulnerable adults. This check is usually arranged through placement or employment.

These entry requirements ensure that students are adequately prepared for the course and any subsequent employment opportunities in settings involving infection control and healthcare. Additionally, students should have a basic level of proficiency in English and Maths.

Qualification obtained

Certificate in the Principles of the Prevention and Control of Infection in Health Care Settings

Fees and funding

As per coursefile/funding rules 

Extra costs and equipment

There are no additional costs associated with this course. 

What will I learn?

What will I learn?

The NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of the Prevention and Control of Infection in Healthcare Settings is structured to provide comprehensive knowledge and practical skills essential for maintaining high standards of hygiene and safety in healthcare environments. The course is divided into four mandatory units:

  • Principles of the Causes and Spread of Infection in Healthcare Settings
  • Principles of the Importance of Personal Hygiene and Health in the Prevention and Control of Infection
  • Principles of Decontamination, Cleaning, and Waste Management in Healthcare Settings
  • Principles of Infection Prevention and Control in Healthcare Settings

By completing these units, you will be well-equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to play a crucial role in infection prevention and control, making a significant impact in healthcare environments.

Industry placement, field trips and guest speakers

Guest Speakers: The programme is enriched by guest speakers from the industry, providing valuable insights and real-world perspectives. These industry experts share their experiences and knowledge, enhancing the learning experience and offering students a unique opportunity to engage with professionals in the field.

How will I learn?

The programme primarily focuses on theoretical knowledge but also includes practical hands-on elements to enhance learning and application. This flexible approach ensures that students can engage with the material in a way that best suits their needs.

Interactive Lectures: Engaging lectures that encourage student participation and discussion.

Group Work: Collaborative projects and activities that foster teamwork and communication skills.

Practical Workshops: Hands-on sessions where students can apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios.

Online Resources: Access to a wealth of online materials, including videos, articles, and interactive modules.

These varied teaching methods ensure a comprehensive and dynamic learning experience.

Expert tutors

Susan Parker – Programme Leader for Health and Social Care  

How will I be assessed?

How will I be assessed?

Students will be assessed through a combination of methods designed to evaluate their understanding and practical application of the course material. The assessment process is structured to ensure that students can demonstrate their knowledge and skills effectively.

Assessment Methods:

  • Portfolio of Evidence: Throughout the course, students will compile a portfolio of evidence that showcases their learning and achievements. This portfolio will include various forms of assessment such as written assignments, case studies, and practical tasks.
  • Written Assignments: These assignments will test students' understanding of theoretical concepts and their ability to apply this knowledge to real-world scenarios.
  • Case Studies: Students will analyse specific situations related to childhood illnesses, demonstrating their problem-solving skills and ability to provide appropriate care and support.

Grading:

  • The course is assessed on a pass or fail basis. Students must meet all the assessment criteria for each unit to achieve a pass.
  • The portfolio of evidence is a crucial component of the assessment process, as it provides comprehensive proof of the student's competence and understanding.