Free Level 3 Uniformed Services Course in Ashton-under-Lyne. Classes run at Ashton Sixth Form College, full-time during the day over two years. You'll study a mix of theory and practical work covering fitness, leadership, teamwork, equality and diversity, and the roles and responsibilities within public services such as the police, fire service, ambulance service, and military. The course is assessed entirely through coursework, including reports, training plans, and formal interviews. It's a strong foundation for this level 3 uniformed services qualification, whether you go on to university, an apprenticeship, or apply directly to a service.
Who this course is for
The BTEC Certificate in Public Services is designed for individuals interested in pursuing careers within the uniformed or non-uniformed public services, such as the police, fire service, ambulance service, military, or local government. It provides foundational knowledge, practical skills, and an understanding of the roles and responsibilities within these sectors. The qualification is ideal for students looking to develop leadership, teamwork, and communication skills, whether they intend to progress into further education, apprenticeships, or directly into employment within public service roles.
You'll develop leadership and teamwork skills used across the public services.
You'll build fitness knowledge, including diet, exercise, and training planning.
You'll study equality, diversity, and inclusion as they apply to public service roles.
You'll learn the values, standards, and discipline expected in uniformed services.
You'll practise interview skills and career planning for entry into the services.
You'll explore security skills and the responsibilities of different service roles.
You'll gain an understanding of how organisations like the police, army, and fire service operate.
How you will learn
Learning is classroom-based, combining theory sessions with practical activities including fitness training and bootcamp-style exercises. Assessment is entirely through coursework. You'll produce reports, training plans, and take part in formal interviews to demonstrate your knowledge and skills. There are no written exams. The course also includes enrichment activities with organisations such as the Royal Air Force, Army, Royal Navy, Greater Manchester Police, and HMP Styal.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Ashton Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Police constable, joining a UK police force after further selection
Firefighter, applying to a fire and rescue service
Army soldier or officer, entering the British Army
Royal Navy rating or officer, joining the naval service
Royal Air Force airman or airwoman, serving in the RAF
Ambulance care assistant, supporting paramedics on the road
Prison officer, working in the custodial services
Security officer, working in government or private security roles
What you could study next
Level 3 Extended Diploma in Public Services: a larger qualification that strengthens your application to university or higher-level apprenticeships in the public sector.
Degree in Policing, Criminology, or Public Services: many universities accept this uniformed services qualification as part of their entry requirements.
Public Services Apprenticeship (Level 3 or 4): earn while you train in a specific service role, building on the foundation this course provides.
