Free Level 3 Entry to the Uniformed Services Course in Newport. Classes run at Isle of Wight College. This full-time daytime course is designed for people aiming to work in the uniformed public services, such as the police, armed forces, fire service, or prison service. The entry to the uniformed services (OG) qualification covers the knowledge, fitness, and professional skills these services look for. The course runs for 72 weeks. You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Maths, to apply.
Who this course is for
This qualification is aimed at people with a desire to be employed within any of the Uniformed Public Services apart from the Ambulance service where you would need to look at Health and Social Care with GCSEs in Maths, English and Biology. This is an advanced level course for individuals with a keen interest in studying to progress further in this field.
Entry requirements
Achieve 5 GCSE's at grade 4 or above including English and Maths, progressing students may require a minimum of Level 1 qualification in your chosen subject at Merit or above and English language and Maths at Level 1. Progressing students without English or Maths at GCSE grade 4/C will be required to study these as part of their programme of study.
What you will learn
You'll study the structure and roles of the main uniformed public services in the UK.
You'll develop physical fitness and understand the fitness standards required by different services.
You'll explore law, crime, and the criminal justice system as they apply to public service work.
You'll practise teamwork, leadership, and communication skills used in uniformed environments.
You'll learn about discipline, rank structures, and the values expected of public service personnel.
You'll investigate current issues affecting the uniformed services, including equality and diversity.
You'll develop skills in research, report writing, and presenting information professionally.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom sessions, practical activities, and group work at Isle of Wight College. Assessment is through assignments, projects, and coursework rather than formal exams. You'll build a portfolio of evidence across the course. Some units may involve physical activities and visits relevant to the uniformed services.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Isle of Wight College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Police constable: entry-level role with a UK police force
Army soldier: enlisted role across a range of army trades
Royal Navy rating: entry-level naval service role
Royal Air Force airman or airwoman: ground or aircrew support roles
Prison officer: custody and rehabilitation work in the prison service
Fire and rescue operative: operational firefighting and emergency response
Border Force officer: immigration and customs control at UK borders
What you could study next
Foundation Degree or BA in Policing or Criminology: for those aiming toward graduate-entry police roles or detective pathways.
Level 3 or Level 4 qualifications in Leadership and Management: useful if you progress into a supervisory role within any service.
Direct service recruitment and training: many uniformed services run their own selection and training programmes once you hold a relevant Level 3 entry to the uniformed services qualification.
