Download our prospectus

16-18

Download 16-18 prospectus

University & Professional Development

Download University & Professional Development prospectus

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 in academic subjects (including maths and English), or a Level 2 qualification.

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 uniformed public services, covering a variety of public service skills. 
The course is run by an inspiring team of highly qualified lecturers with public services experience and will give you a good understanding of the sector, developing your abilities 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 will qualify you to progress on to a degree in Policing or Public Services, as well as a variety of other degrees. You could also enter employment in the Police (including police community support officer), Fire Service, Royal Air Force, Army, Royal Navy, Prison service and border agency. 

What you'll learn

The course consists of a number of units including: 

  • Preparing for a career in a chosen uniformed service 
  • Developing aspects of physical fitness for entry to the uniformed services  
  • Developing leadership skills 
  • Equality, diversity, and inclusion  
  • Emergency planning and response in the uniformed services  
  • Understanding the impact of war and conflict on uniformed services  
  • Map reading and navigation 
  • Values and standards 
  • UK Legal Systems  

 
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 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
  • Army Officer 
  • Navy Officer
  • Royal Air Force Officer 
  • Prison Officer
  • Border Control Officer
  • Firefighter
  • Civilian Staff MOD 

Days & times

Starting September 2025


Ask us a Question

If there is anything more you would like to know about this course, please message us here.

Please enter your name
Please enter a valid email address
Invalid Input
Please enter a message

Ask us a Question

If there is anything more you would like to know about this course, please message us here.

Please enter your name
Please enter a valid email address
Invalid Input
Please enter a message