How to assess the Care Certificate

Fair, practical, flexible, good communication skills – it sounds like requirements for a potential date. But in fact, these are just some of the qualities you’ll need to make it as a high calibre assessor.  

Since 2017, all trainee care workers have had to complete the Care Certificate as part of their induction training.  

The process is much more flexible than it was previously, and the process can be a little confusing for new assessors. So, we've answered some of the most frequently asked questions, to shed some light on the process. 

Who can assess the Care Certificate?  

You don't need to be a qualified assessor to assess the Care Certificate, but you do need to be competent in any standard within it which you're assessing. This means you might not be able to assess every standard – you might have to share the workload with experts from other areas.  

What is the role of the assessor? 

As a Care Certificate assessor you have a vital role. You’re responsible for ensuring the highest standards of practice from those caring for some of the most vulnerable people in society.  It’s comprehensive, and includes planning and delivering training, and assessing candidates on-the-job. You can use a wide range of methods to help workers understand what they need to do to meet the standards and how they can improve. You're responsible for providing high-quality feedback, reviewing evidence and ensuring learning has been understood.  

What makes a good assessor? 

It's important that you take a personal approach with each candidate. You may already be competent in the standards, but your care workers are still learning the ropes and they'll need a lot of support along the way. Understanding how different people learn will help you plan your training and get the most from each candidate.   

Here are some of the most important traits of a good assessor – according to a poll of learners:   

• Organised  
• A good communicator  
• Friendly and approachable   

• Enthusiastic   
• Fair  

When are workers assessed? 

Assessment should only start when the new worker is ready – and that depends on the individual. Each learner will need enough time to learn the underpinning knowledge, practise their skills and complete the self-assessment tool to track progress. Only then, when they feel prepared, can you start the assessment process.   

What happens during an assessment? 

Assessment is easier with OneFile's eportfolio – which allows you to access learner portfolios and assess evidence anytime, anywhere, on any device. You can even write comments, add annotations and send feedback to the learner so they know where to make improvements.   

If you're assessing a worker on the job, make sure you explain to any patients who might be present about why you're there, and that there's nothing to worry about. While you're observing a learner, stand back if possible so they can practise their skills as normal. You can make notes throughout, but try to save any questions for the end. 

How to stay compliant 

The Care Certificate is regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC). They'll want to see evidence that all staff are aware of the standards and that their competency is assessed, managed and reviewed. If you use an eportfolio to manage the Care Certificate, you can keep an auditable record of evidence online – so you're always inspection ready.  

What are the different assessment methods? 

There is a range of different assessment methods – from group exercises to professional discussions. Each method is different and can be used in different circumstances, which is perfect for assessing all 15 Care Certificate standards.   

To find out what assessment methods are accepted – and how you can use OneFile to make assessments easier – download our assessment guide.