Free Level 3 Policing Course in Bishop Auckland. Classes run at Bishop Auckland College, full-time across three to four days per week. The course takes one year and gives you a thorough grounding in how the police service works, the entry process, fitness requirements, and the organisations that support policing. You'll also build transferable skills in problem-solving, teamwork, and meeting deadlines. Entry requires a minimum of four GCSEs at grades 4 to 9 (preferably including Maths and English), or a BTEC or NCFE Level 2 at Merit or above. An interview is part of the application.
Who this course is for
If you are looking for a career within the Police Service then here is the place to start. This qualification is designed to provide learners with an in-depth understanding of the principles of the police service and to allow them to explore the various avenues of work within it. It will also allow learners to gain transferable skills that can be applied to the workplace or further study. This course can help you grow in confidence and become self-disciplined, learn how to solve problems, meet deadlines, keep fit and work as part of a team.
Entry requirements
Minimum 4 GCSE's at grades 9 - 4 (A* - C) or equivalent (preferably to include Maths and English) or a BTEC/NCFE Level 2 at Merit or above. A genuine interest in the subject is essential - an interview will assess your suitability for the course and interest in the subject.
What you will learn
You'll explore the principles and structure of the UK police service
You'll investigate career opportunities within policing and related roles
You'll understand the entry process and how to prepare for it
You'll learn about the fitness and personal commitment requirements for policing
You'll examine the external organisations that work alongside the police
You'll develop problem-solving, teamwork, and time-management skills
You'll gain transferable skills applicable to further study or the workplace
How you will learn
You'll study in the classroom across three to four days per week. The course is taught alongside the Uniformed Public Service and Criminology courses. You'll complete either six or nine units in the year, agreed with your tutors. Assessment is through coursework and unit-based tasks. If you have not achieved grades 4 to 9 in English and Maths, you may be required to attend additional days to work on those subjects.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Bishop Auckland College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Police officer, joining a force after meeting entry requirements
Police community support officer (PCSO), working with local communities
Special constable, volunteering in a sworn police role
Border Force officer, working in ports and airports
Prison officer, working in custody and rehabilitation
Security officer, applying policing knowledge in private security
Emergency services call handler, supporting police or fire dispatch
What you could study next
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Uniformed Public Services, broadening your knowledge across emergency services
A degree in Policing, Criminology, or Criminal Justice, required for the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship route
Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA), the direct entry route to becoming a qualified police officer while earning
Level 4 or 5 qualifications in Security Management or Criminal Justice for roles in oversight and management
