Level 3 Uniformed Services Course in Blackpool

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Level 3 Entry to the Uniformed Services Course in Blackpool. Classes run full-time at Bispham Campus over two years.

Students aged 18 or under pay no fees. If you're 19 to 23, fees may be fully or partially waived depending on your circumstances. If you're 24 or over, a loan may be available to help with costs.

The course covers the structure and values of services such as the police, fire service, and prison service. You'll study through projects and assignments based on realistic workplace situations. Lecturers bring experience from protective service backgrounds. You'll need four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English or maths, or a relevant Level 2 vocational qualification. You'll also have an interview with a tutor.

You'll finish with the NCFE Diploma for Entry to the Uniformed Services.

Who this course is for

Uniformed Protective Services at Blackpool and the Fylde College is an exciting and active course that will prepare you for the nature and pressure of protective services work. The course will give you a detailed insight into the workings of different services through theoretical and practical subjects delivered by experienced lecturers from protective service backgrounds. You will learn by completing projects and assignments that are based on realistic workplace situations, and learners will develop essential skills and knowledge that are required within the Uniformed Protective Services including leadership, teamwork, communication, decision-making and discipline. You will also have a dedicated fitness and practical sessions each week which all students will participate in to be ready for a career within the services. As part of your Programme of Study, you will also cover the following area which you must complete successfully to gain your qualification: Maths and English programme at the appropriate level Tutorial - you will have a one to one every 4 - 5 weeks with your tutor to assess your progress and set targetsWork Experience and Volunteering programme - employer visits, hands on experiences, guest speakers from industry expert

Entry requirements

4 GCSEs grade 4 or above including English or maths grade 4 or above OR Level 2 vocational qualification in relevant subject and English or Maths grade 4 or above (Students can re-sit English or Maths GCSE alongside this course) PlusA successful interview with a tutorThe ability to study independentlyA genuine interest in the subjectGood communication skillsHardworking approach towards the industry

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the structure and roles of the police, fire, prison, and armed services.
  • You'll study the law and how it applies to uniformed services work.
  • You'll develop physical fitness and understand the demands of service life.
  • You'll practise teamwork, leadership, and communication skills used in protective services.
  • You'll analyse real-world scenarios and respond to them through assignments and projects.
  • You'll build an understanding of equality, diversity, and safeguarding in public services.

How you will learn

You'll learn through a mix of classroom lessons, practical activities, and project-based assignments. Tasks are set in realistic workplace contexts so you can apply what you learn. Assessment is through coursework, assignments, and practical tasks rather than traditional exams. Lecturers with protective services backgrounds guide your learning throughout the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Bispham Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer, joins the police service after further recruitment and training.
  • Firefighter, applies to the fire service following this qualification and fitness assessments.
  • Prison officer, works in custody and rehabilitation within the prison service.
  • Armed forces recruit, enters the army, navy, or RAF as a junior rank.
  • Community support officer, supports police work in a civilian role.
  • Border Force officer, works in immigration and customs at ports and airports.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Public Services, a broader qualification for learners wanting more depth before applying to services.
  • Foundation Degree in Policing or Public Services, a higher education route for those aiming toward officer-level roles.
  • Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship, earns a degree while training as a serving officer.
  • Level 3 Award in Education and Training, useful if you later want to teach or train others in the sector.