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Free Level 3 Uniformed Services Course in Buxton

CostFREE
Duration36 weeks
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body
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About this course

Free Level 3 Entry to the Uniformed Services Course in Buxton. Classes run at University of Derby Buxton Campus, full-time during the day over 36 weeks.

The course covers the knowledge and physical preparation needed for a career in the police, fire service, prison service, or armed forces. You'll study topics such as law and order, physical fitness, teamwork, and the structure of the uniformed services. You'll need four GCSEs at grade C or above, including maths and English, to join.

You'll finish with an NCFE Diploma for Entry to the Uniformed Services at Level 3.

Who this course is for

This course is aimed at 16-19-year-olds, interested in pursuing a career in the uniformed and protective services. You may be a cadet or been unsuccessful in the interview/application/medical/fitness stage with the Armed Forces Careers Offices (AFCO) and would benefit from doing this course in order to progress in your chosen career. Otherwise, you may be unsure which uniformed service you wish to follow or simply not yet ready for the training. The Level 3 Uniformed and Protective Services course is designed to provide a detailed insight into a wide range of jobs, both in the public and private sectors. It will provide you with valuable employability skills, such as, leadership and teamwork, to enable you to pursue a career in one of these sectors. With this qualification you could look forward to a future career as a Police Officer, Fire Fighter or in the Army, Royal Marines, Royal Navy or RAF

Entry requirements

4 GCSEs at grade C/4 or above including maths and English.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the structure and roles of the UK uniformed services.
  • You'll develop physical fitness and understand fitness standards required by the services.
  • You'll study law, order, and the criminal justice system.
  • You'll practise teamwork, leadership, and communication skills.
  • You'll learn about health, safety, and risk assessment in a public services context.
  • You'll understand the application and selection processes for uniformed services careers.
  • You'll build knowledge of citizenship, community, and the role of public services in society.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions, practical activities, and group exercises. Assessment is through assignments, projects, and practical tasks. There are no formal written exams for most units. You'll build a portfolio of evidence across the course to demonstrate your skills and knowledge.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. University of Derby Buxton Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer, enforces the law and supports communities across the UK.
  • Firefighter, responds to emergencies and works on fire prevention.
  • Prison officer, manages and supports people in custody.
  • Army, Navy or RAF soldier or recruit, serves in the UK armed forces.
  • Border Force officer, works at ports and airports on immigration and customs.
  • Paramedic or emergency services support worker, responds to urgent incidents.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 NVQ in Policing, for those moving into a police constable role.
  • Foundation Degree in Public Services, a higher-level route for those wanting to study further.
  • Apprenticeship in Operational Firefighting, the work-based route into the fire service.
  • BTEC Higher National Certificate in Public Services, for progression into university-level study in the sector.
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