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Level 3 Policing Course in Harlow

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

Free for 16 to 18 year olds. Fees apply for adults. Advanced Learner Loan available. Contact Harlow College for more info.

Apply now →

About this course

Level 3 Policing Course in Harlow. Classes run at Harlow College, full-time over two years. It may be free if you're 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 or over, an Advanced Learner Loan may be available. There is also a £100 charge for educational visits and kit across the year, with any underspend reimbursed. This NCFE level 3 policing qualification covers the knowledge and skills needed for a career in policing. You'll take part in mock scenarios, forensic evidence gathering, drill work, self-defence, and visits to courts and police venues. Entry requires four GCSEs at grade 4 or above.

Who this course is for

The NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma extends and deepens the specialist work related to Policing. There is potential for the qualification to prepare learners for appropriate direct employment into the Police Apprentice pathway. It is broadly equivalent to three A Levels. The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Policing is designed as a full time, 2-year programme for learners who wish to develop their skills and knowledge of the sector. This qualification also supports learners interested in progressing to further/higher education.

Entry requirements

4 GCSEs Grades 4 and above.

An interest in going into a career in policing

What you will learn

  • You'll practise mock scenarios including searches and emergency planning
  • You'll learn forensic evidence gathering techniques
  • You'll develop self-discipline, organisation, and leadership skills
  • You'll take part in drill work and physical preparation for police entry tests
  • You'll practise self-defence and communication methods including radio use
  • You'll carry out navigation exercises and work with the public
  • You'll visit law courts, police training venues, and a police museum
  • You'll hear from guest speakers across regional and national police forces

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions, practical exercises, and educational visits. Teaching methods include mock scenarios, drill work, physical training, and guest speakers from policing teams and constabularies. Assessment is through coursework and practical demonstration of skills. Classes are delivered full-time during the day at Harlow College.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Harlow College will confirm anything else you need before you start. There is a £100 charge for educational visits and kit across the year. Any underspend is reimbursed to you at the end of the year.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer (via Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship or direct entry)
  • Police community support officer, working alongside local officers
  • Special constable, volunteering in a sworn police role
  • Prison officer, working in custody and rehabilitation
  • Border Force officer, managing UK border security
  • Security officer, working in public or private settings
  • Emergency services control room operator, handling 999 calls

What you could study next

This qualification is broadly equivalent to three A Levels, so it can support an application to university. You could progress to a degree in criminology, criminal justice, or policing. The Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship is another route into the police as a paid employee while you study. Some learners also move into Level 4 or Level 5 qualifications in public services or security management.

Apply on harlow-college.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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