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Level 3 Public Services Course in Newbury

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
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About this course

Level 3 Public Services Course in Newbury. Classes run at Newbury College, full-time during the day. It's free if you're 16 to 18 years old. If you're 19 or over, fees may apply, though the government may cover costs if you don't already hold a full Level 3.

This public services qualification covers the skills and knowledge needed for careers in the armed forces, emergency services, and security. You'll study topics such as fitness and health, law and the justice system, and the structure of public service organisations. The course takes two years to complete.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Extended Diploma in Public Services.

Who this course is for

The Extended Diploma is the equivalent of three A Levels. This course is for anyone who is interested in seeking employment within the public services such as: Armed forces, Royal Marines, Royal Navy, Air force, Army, Military Police, Emergency Services Fire Service, Police, Prison Service and Security Please note that some public services may place restrictions on certain roles including, but not limited to: medical conditions, physical attributes, fitness, nationality, age, and others. Please check with the relevant service for specific requirements or make an appointment with our Information, Advice and Guidance team.

Entry requirements

Students will need to have five GCSE passes at grade 4/ C or above, preferably including Maths and English.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the structure and roles of the armed forces, police, fire service, and prison service.
  • You'll develop your understanding of law, justice, and the criminal justice system.
  • You'll study physical fitness, health, and the demands of public service roles.
  • You'll learn about leadership, teamwork, and discipline in a public services context.
  • You'll examine government, citizenship, and the role of public services in society.
  • You'll build skills in communication, report writing, and decision-making under pressure.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions, practical activities, and assignments. Assessment is through coursework, projects, and unit-based assignments rather than formal exams. Some units may include physical activity or scenario-based tasks linked to public service environments.

What you will need to bring

You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, preferably including Maths and English, to enrol. Newbury College will confirm what you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Firefighter, entry requires passing fitness and selection tests after this qualification.
  • Police officer, you can apply to a force directly or via a degree apprenticeship route.
  • Prison officer, this qualification supports your application to HM Prison and Probation Service.
  • Security officer, a Security Industry Authority licence is also required for most roles.
  • Armed forces soldier or sailor, this course prepares you for selection and basic training.
  • Emergency services support roles, such as control room operator or police community support officer.

What you could study next

  • A degree in criminology, policing, or public administration, for roles that require graduate-level entry.
  • A Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship, which combines on-the-job training with a degree and leads directly to the role of police constable.
  • A Level 4 or Level 5 qualification in leadership or management, useful for progression within public service organisations.
  • A foundation degree or HND in public services or security management, for those wanting higher-level study before entering the workforce.
Apply on newbury-college.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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