There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the specific context and situation. However, in general, the care certificate is not the same as an NVQ Level 2. The care certificate is a set of standards that social care workers are expected to meet in order to provide high-quality care. NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications) are qualifications that can be achieved through work-based learning.
So, while the care certificate is a set of standards, an NVQ is a qualification that can be gained by achieving certain standards.