Public Services Level 3

This course is equivalent to three A Levels and will give you a thorough and practical insight into the public services sector.

This course will prepare you for the mental and physical demands of life in the services, whether you decide to go straight into industry or continue to university-level study. You’ll benefit from being taught by professionals with years of service in the uniformed public services, and who still work in close collaboration with the police, fire and ambulance services.

Designed to provide highly specialised work related knowledge, you will develop the understanding and skills sought by employers in a wide range of uniformed public services. With your positive outlook and willingness to step out of your comfort zone, you will take part in a number of different activities which may include: four-day residential to Snowdonia, two day expedition in Pembrokeshire, radio and communication, Royal Marines visit, climbing, caving, kayaking, hill walking, service fitness/exercise drills, military unarmed combat/physical intervention and conflict management through a series of role plays.

Qualification BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Uniformed Public Services

Duration Two years

Course Content Units you will cover include: • Understanding Discipline in the Uniformed Public Services • Fitness Testing and Training for the Uniformed Public Services • Physical Preparation, Health and Lifestyle for the Public Services • Skills for Land-based Outdoor and Adventurous Activities • Skills for Water-based Outdoor and Adventurous Activities

Assessment is continuous and industry related, with assignments, projects and practical work. All full-time students are required to study maths and English at the appropriate level, see page 8 for more details.

Entry Requirements • Four GCSE passes at grade 4 or above, (including maths or English) or a Merit or above in the BTEC Level 2 Uniformed Public Services • Successful interview and initial assessment • You will need to demonstrate an enthusiasm for this subject area

Progression Progression routes shown are dependent on successful completion of qualifications and meeting entry criteria.

Study options may include: • HNC in Public Services • BSc (Hons) in Outdoor Adventure Leadership and Management • Foundation Degrees and higher education in relevant subjects

Employment options may include: • The Armed Forces • Emergency Services • Outdoor Education • Statutory Agencies e.g. Local Council, Child Welfare, Youth Offending and Traffic Enforcement • Security Services

Course Costs Please note that any costs shown here are subject to change and that there may be additional material costs for your course. There are various bursaries available to support eligible students with course-related costs and you can find out more about these on page 14.

Aged 16 –18 years There are no tuition or examination fees.

Aged 19 or over (at the start of the course) Different fees apply depending on your individual circumstances and prior qualifications. Please telephone 01691 688029 to speak to somebody who will be able to help.

Material Fees There is a £325 material fee cost for this course.

PUBLIC SERVICES STUDENTS – OUT & ABOUT

Our students build friendships by working as a team and developing their fitness levels through practical activities, both of which are vital in the public services sector. They also improve their skills and confidence; which helps to bring out the character of each individual student. Being with their peers and a supportive group of staff allows students to conquer their fears and become stronger, more confident individuals.

Students take part in a five day trip to Outward Bound Centre in Aberdovey. The week is designed for them to advance their leadership skills, to work as part of a team and progress their personal achievements in different challenges. The students work as a team to get every member over a variety of outdoor challenges and obstacles. Course lecturer, Marie Davis commented, “It was a fantastic week with amazing students, it was a pleasure to watch them develop their skills and personal achievement.”

Students experience a number of guest speakers from the emergency services and the armed services, where they are educated about career pathways and application opportunities. There are also many day trips to enhance the learning experience, such as regular hill walking and numerous outdoor fitness activities. Additional to this is the use of PGL outdoor centre where students have the opportunity to complete land-based and water-based adventure units.