Level 3 Uniformed Services Course in Paignton

Cost£1,407.00
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start14 Sep 2026
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Level 3 Entry to the Uniformed Services Course in Paignton. Classes run at South Devon College, part-time during the day over one year.

The course covers the knowledge, skills, and values needed for a career in the uniformed public services. You'll study topics including law and order, physical fitness, teamwork, and public service ethics. Units also explore the structure of services such as the police, fire service, and armed forces. You'll need GCSE grade 4 or above in both English and Maths to join.

You'll finish with an NCFE Diploma for Entry to the Uniformed Services at Level 3.

Who this course is for

At South Devon College, our Level 3 Diploma in Public Services is designed to equip you with the character, ethos, skills, and knowledge required for a professional career in the uniformed public services. Whether you aim to join the police, fire service, armed forces, or another public service sector, this course will prepare you for a successful career dedicated to providing outstanding service to the community. We are committed to educating and inspiring students to be the best version of themselves, grounded in the values of the uniformed public services. Throughout your studies, you'll develop the mental and physical resilience required for such a demanding career, and learn the principles of respect, responsibility, reliability, resilience, integrity, and excellence. Phases of Study The course will cover several key areas to develop your knowledge and practical skills: Initial Training, Mental and Physical Resilience Defense, Equality, and Counter Terrorism Leadership and Adventure Disaster Planning, Decision Making, and Collaboration Crime, Criminology, and Courts Expedition Planning and Adventures Outcomes Upon completion, you will be ready to contribute to the public service sector with the following attributes:Live with honour, honesty, and humility Demonstrate intellectual and physical competence Think critically and creatively Make sound, timely decisions Communicate, collaborate, and interact effectively Seek balance, resilience, and adventure Pursue excellence and continually grow Our guiding principle is to consider the type of people needed for public service 5, 10, and 20 years into the future, ensuring that you are prepared for long-term success. Key Information for Applicants Qualification achieved: Level 3 1080 Extended Diploma in Uniformed Public Services (NCFE) Course Costs: Uniform £85 (Uniform Bundle) Course Timetable: 3.5 Days per week We are excited to offer an additional Rugby Pathway to the Level 3 Public Services course, combining the va

Entry requirements

You must have a GCSE Grade 4(C) in English, You must have a GCSE Grade 4(C) in Maths, You should have a genuine interest in this subject

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the structure and roles of the police, fire service, prison service, and armed forces.
  • You'll develop teamwork and leadership skills through practical activities.
  • You'll study law, order, and the justice system in the UK.
  • You'll learn about physical fitness and the demands of uniformed service roles.
  • You'll examine public service values, ethics, and community responsibilities.
  • You'll build communication and problem-solving skills relevant to public service work.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions, group work, and practical activities. Assessment includes written assignments, projects, and practical tasks. Some units may involve presentations or scenario-based exercises. Your progress is assessed throughout the course rather than through a single final exam.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. South Devon College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer, responds to incidents and supports communities.
  • Firefighter, tackles fires and responds to emergencies.
  • Prison officer, manages and supports people in custody.
  • Armed forces recruit, serves in the Army, Navy, or Royal Air Force.
  • Border Force officer, controls entry at UK ports and airports.
  • Community support officer, assists police in local areas.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 NVQ in Policing, for those already working or volunteering in a police role.
  • Foundation Degree in Public Services, offered at many universities and colleges for deeper study.
  • Direct entry to armed forces or emergency services recruitment programmes, where this Diploma supports your application.
  • Higher National Certificate in Public Services, a step toward a full degree in the field.