Course overview
In Short
This course offers a range of diverse and exciting opportunities. This qualification has been developed to meet the needs of a broad spectrum of public service areas from uniformed roles in defence, emergency, security and justice, to non-uniformed roles in central and local government, as well as related voluntary and private sector agencies. You will gain a wide range of transferable skills needed for public service employment and have the opportunity to be involved in taster sessions, trips and visits. There will also be a programme of guest speakers. You will gain the knowledge, understanding and skills required for success in current and future employment, or for progression to courses such as BTEC Higher Nationals, Foundation degrees or Honours degrees.
Location
Uniformed Protective Services will be based at our Kingston Maurward Campus from 2026. This move allows us to make the most of the campus’ specialist facilities and extensive outdoor space, helping to create the best possible learning experience particularly for the practical elements of the course.
Why study here?
We offer an exceptional range of courses all designed to prepare you for success in a rapidly changing world. Our dedicated staff will support and challenge you to achieve more than you imagined, helping you build the skills, knowledge, and mindset to thrive. Ofsted has recognised us as a ‘Good’ college, celebrating the strength of our teaching and our commitment to preparing students for the future. Through our close partnerships with local employers and industries, you’ll gain real-world experience and insights that make you ready for both today’s opportunities and tomorrow’s challenges.Entry Requirements
5 GCSEs at Grade 4 (C) including English and maths (or equivalent) or a First Diploma with Merit profile. Mature students will be assessed on the basis of an interview. You should be interested in all aspects of Public Services, outdoor activity and sport
Course Structure
Course Description
Year 1
Unit 2 – Behaviour and Discipline in the Uniformed Protective Services (external assessment)
Unit 4 – Physical Preparation, Health and Wellbeing
Unit 5 – Teamwork, Leadership and Communication in the Uniformed Protective Services
Unit 10 – Skills for Outdoor Activities and the Uniformed Protective Services
Unit 15 – Police Powers and the Law
Unit 17 – Understanding the Third Sector
Unit 19 – Professional Development in the Uniformed Protective Services
Year 2
Unit 1 – Citizenship and Diversity (Pearson-set assessment)
Unit 3 – Global Affairs, the Media and the Uniformed Protective Services
Unit 12 Developing Personal Fitness Programmes
Unit 6 – Government and the Protective Services (external assessment)
Unit 7 – Planning for and Responding to Emergency Incidents
Unit 11 – Expedition Skills
Plus Work Experience and Industry Placements
Our programme of study includes visits from the Emergency Services and Police Services in addition to presentations and practical activities with the Armed Forces such as the Army, Royal Marines and Royal Navy. There will also be an opportunity to visit various different Uniformed Public Services where you will have the opportunity to interact with serving personnel.
Assessment
Assessment is specifically designed to fit the purpose and objective of the qualification. It includes a range of assessment types and styles suited to vocational qualifications in the sector. Units are assessed through a mix of assignment based tasks and external assessments. There will also be a mix of individual and group work, which will require you to complete investigations, reports and presentations.
Progression
Students who completed this course have gained places on courses such as FdA Public Services, BSc (Hons) Sports (Health & Fitness) and BA (Hons) Sports Management at institutions such as Bournemouth University, Winchester University and University of Bath. They have also gone onto study BSc Policing Studies, BSc Public Services and BSc Public Services (Policing).