Free BTEC Level 3 Uniformed Protective Services Course in Weymouth. Classes run full-time at Weymouth College, five days a week during the day. The course covers a broad range of public service areas, from uniformed roles in defence, emergency services, security and justice, to non-uniformed roles in government and the voluntary sector. You'll build transferable skills valued across public service employment and take part in taster sessions and practical activities. The course runs for one year. Entry is by interview, and you'll need at least five GCSEs at grade C or above, including English and maths, or a Level 2 Diploma in Public Services with Merit.
Who this course is for
The Public Services offer 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.
Entry requirements
Selection is by interview. You should have at least 5 GCSEs at minimum grade C including English and maths or equivalent or a Level 2 Diploma in Public Services with Merit. 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
What you will learn
You'll explore the structure and roles of uniformed protective services in the UK.
You'll develop knowledge of law, discipline and ethics relevant to public service work.
You'll study physical fitness and the demands of uniformed service roles.
You'll learn about emergency response, risk assessment and incident management.
You'll build teamwork, leadership and communication skills through practical activities.
You'll gain understanding of central and local government and how public services operate.
You'll take part in taster sessions linked to defence, emergency, security and justice sectors.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions, practical activities and taster sessions linked to real public service environments. Assessment is through a combination of internally assessed assignments and externally assessed units, as set by Pearson Edexcel for the BTEC National Extended Certificate. You'll complete coursework, projects and written tasks throughout the year. Some units may involve physical activity and outdoor elements.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Weymouth College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Police officer, after completing further police recruitment and training
Firefighter, applying to a fire and rescue service after the course
Army, Navy or RAF recruit, entering uniformed service after the qualification
Prison officer, working in custody and rehabilitation settings
Border Force officer, working in ports and airports on security and immigration
Security officer, in public or private sector security roles
Local government officer, in administrative or community-facing public service roles
What you could study next
BTEC Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Public Services (Level 4) - a natural next step if you want to study public services at a higher level before entering employment.
Degree in Criminology, Policing or Public Services - many universities accept the BTEC National Extended Certificate for entry.
Level 3 Diploma in Uniformed Protective Services - if you want a broader qualification before applying to a specific service.
