Housing 21’s Extra Care Academy raises the bar in care: From graduates to leadership roles

The industry-first training programme designed to help Care Workers progress into management roles with potential salaries exceeding £50k, proudly marks the end of the first cohort of students.  

(Pictured: Extra Care Academy graduates (left to right) Najaha, Kimberley, Jessica, Shelly) 

The success of Housing 21’s Extra Care Academy is evident, with 75 percent of graduates now in management roles, such as Assistant Care Managers. This achievement aligns with the initiative's goal of developing internal talent and establishing a defined career pathway for Care Workers. It marks a significant stride in creating appealing career opportunities within the care sector to retain and motivate individuals to advance in the industry. This progress comes against the backdrop of Care England’s warning that the adult social care sector is at ‘breaking point,’ with 131,000 vacancies reported as of March 2025. 

Najaha, a graduate from the Extra Care Academy who is now in an Assistant Care Manager at one of Housing 21’s Extra Care schemes, said: “Before graduating I was successful in applying to be an Assistant Care Manager at Goldfield Court where I started eight years ago as a Care Worker. The academy has opened a lot of doors for me and I’m proud of my achievements as a result. I’ve always wanted to have my own team and that is something I’ve strived for.”  

The two-year programme, which was launched in September 2022, has equipped students with the necessary training, qualifications and leadership skills to advance their careers within the care sector. Those enrolled engaged in both theoretical and practical training, leading to a Level 3 Health and Social Care qualification whilst having the opportunity to gain hands-on experience.  

Kris Peach, Managing Director of Extra Care at Housing 21, shared his thoughts on the academy’s achievement: "The success of the Extra Care Academy underscores our commitment to redefining careers in care.  

“By investing in our Care Workers and providing internal routes to management positions, we not only enhance their professional growth but also improve our workforce and the quality of care provided to our residents." 

The course's success has paved the way for a third cohort to commence later this year. 

Housing 21 is a leading not-for-profit provider of Extra Care and Retirement Living for older people of modest means. Managing over 24,000 properties across England, Housing 21 is committed to providing quality housing and care, enabling residents to live independently with support if needed.