Free BTEC Level 2 Public Services Course in Leyland. Classes run full-time at Runshaw College, five days a week during the day. The course takes one year to complete. You'll need a minimum of four GCSEs at grade D or Level 3, including English and Maths, to be considered. The course covers the knowledge and skills that underpin careers in the armed forces, police, fire service, and other public sector roles. You'll study topics such as teamwork, fitness, citizenship, and the structure of public services.
Who this course is for
16-19 year olds
Entry requirements
Minimum of 4x Grade D/Level 3 including English and Maths.
What you will learn
You'll explore the structure and roles of the UK's uniformed public services.
You'll develop teamwork and leadership skills through practical activities.
You'll study citizenship, community, and the role of public services in society.
You'll build physical fitness and understand its importance in public service careers.
You'll learn about discipline, values, and the expectations of uniformed roles.
You'll investigate career pathways into the armed forces, police, and fire service.
How you will learn
Learning is classroom based, with a mix of taught sessions, group activities, and practical tasks. The BTEC First Certificate is assessed through assignments and unit-based coursework rather than written exams. You'll complete assignments throughout the year, building a portfolio of evidence across the units you study.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Runshaw College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Police officer. Entry-level role in UK police forces.
Firefighter. Operational role with a fire and rescue service.
Army soldier. Entry-level role across British Army trades.
Royal Navy rating. Enlisted role across naval branches.
Prison officer. Custody and rehabilitation role in the prison service.
Paramedic (trainee). Starting point toward ambulance service careers.
Security officer. Frontline security and public safety role.
What you could study next
BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Public Services. The natural next step if you want to go deeper into public services study before applying to a uniformed service or higher education.
Level 3 Diploma in Uniformed Protective Services. A more specialist route focused on the armed forces and emergency services.
Apprenticeship in Policing or the Fire Service. Earn while you train in a live public service role.
