Free Level 3 Policing Course in Hartlepool. Classes run full-time during the day at Hartlepool College of Further Education. This free policing course covers the skills, knowledge, and legal frameworks that underpin professional policing and the wider criminal justice system. It prepares you to progress into higher education in policing studies, the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship, or roles in security and the prison service. The course runs for 490 hours of classroom-based study.
Who this course is for
This is for students who want to pursue a career in policing. They will be given all the skills and information that
will enable them to progress on to higher education in policing studies, or the policing apprenticeship route. This
course will also appeal to students who have an interest in pursuing a career in law, criminology, forensic
science, or the criminal justice system. It will also equip students who wish to go directly in to the security industry
or Prison service through providing relevant work experience opportunities throughout the course.
This programme carries 180 UCAS points that can be used to progress on to university.
What you will learn
You'll study the structure and role of policing in the UK criminal justice system.
You'll learn how laws and legislation apply to police powers and procedures.
You'll develop knowledge of crime investigation and evidence gathering.
You'll explore criminology and the causes of criminal behaviour.
You'll study forensic science principles and how they support investigations.
You'll learn about safeguarding, vulnerability, and working with communities.
You'll develop report writing and professional communication skills used in policing.
How you will learn
You'll learn through classroom-based sessions at Hartlepool College of Further Education. Assessment is through a combination of written assignments, case studies, and practical tasks. You'll build a portfolio of evidence across the course. Your tutors will give regular feedback to help you progress through each unit.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Hartlepool College of Further Education will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Police officer (via degree apprenticeship or direct entry after further study)
Prison officer, working in custody and rehabilitation
Security officer, protecting people and premises
Police community support officer (PCSO), supporting neighbourhood policing
Court officer, working within the criminal justice system
Victim support worker, helping people affected by crime
Border Force officer, working in immigration and customs
What you could study next
Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship: the main route into becoming a police officer in England and Wales. This level 3 policing qualification supports your application.
BA (Hons) in Policing or Criminology: a degree that deepens your understanding of law, crime, and justice. Many universities accept this Diploma as part of their entry requirements.
Level 3 Diploma in Forensic Science: if you want to specialise in the scientific side of criminal investigation.
