Quick facts
| Qualification type | Advanced Extended Level 3 Diploma |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Study times | You will be expected to be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week, from 9:15 to 4:00. Your timetable will be confirmed at induction. |
| Entry requirements |
Entry is by interview. You will need either a minimum of five GCSE passes at grade 4 or above (including maths and English), or a Level 2 qualification at Merit or above and GCSE Maths and English at grade 4 or above. |
| Campus | West Suffolk College Sixth Form Campus, Bury St Edmunds |
| Work placements | 40 hrs in each year of the course |
Is it for me?
This vocational course introduces the key areas of working within the Police, giving you the opportunity to investigate the skills required to work within the sector. You will also learn about the external organisations that impact on, and influence, the police.
The course outlines the personal commitment and fitness needed to work in policing through weekly training sessions. It's run by an inspiring team of qualified lecturers with policing experience and will encourage your talents within an active and challenging environment.
You will develop your abilities in communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills, ensuring you meet the requirements for this mentally challenging and physically demanding sector.
You will also have the opportunity to participate in residential activities to develop your teamwork and practical skills.
Equivalent to three A Levels, this course allows progression to a degree in Policing, or employment in the Police.
What you'll learn
The course consists of a number of units including:
- Preparing for a career in the police service
- Developing leadership skills
- Equality, diversity, and inclusion
- Preparation for Higher Education
- Developing aspects of physical fitness for entry to the police service
- Mental and physical wellbeing in the police
- Understanding management and personal protection
- Volunteering in the police service
- Understanding mental health
- Safeguarding and the Prevent Duty
Students who do not have GCSE grade 4 in English and Maths will be required to continue with a course of study throughout their time at college.
Equipment required for the course
Students will be required to provide their own equipment and access to a computer outside of college is highly recommended. There may be a requirement to make a contribution towards the cost of trips which will be arrange throughout the course.
Learners will also be required to have a sports kit, walking boots and outdoor clothing.
Work experience placements
You will be required to take part in a minimum of 40hrs volunteer work each year in the local community to help develop your skills.
Assessment
All work all internally assessed by a variety of methods, including practical and physical tasks, written assessments and reports, verbal presentations, and self-evaluation. Each unit has 3-4 assessments and work is submitted via Microsoft Teams.
Further study
Example careers
- Police Officer
- Police Staff
- Ministry of Defence Police
- Military Police
- Civil Nuclear Police
Days & times
Starting September 2025