Vocational Uniformed Public Services

Course Overview

Awarded By This course is awarded by the examination board NCFE. Prepare for a career in the Emergency and Military Services by gaining a broad understanding of what life in the uniformed services is really like. You’ll take part in practical fitness training and assessments designed around entry requirements for the services, while also learning the importance of discipline through both theory and hands‑on activities.

Alongside this, you’ll develop vital employability skills such as teamwork, communication, punctuality and navigation, often through challenging expeditions that put your learning into practice. The course also explores wider areas relevant to all services, including behaviour, media influence, major incidents and volunteering, giving you the knowledge, skills and confidence to take your next steps towards a successful career in the uniformed services.

Type of Learning :
School Leaver

Course Code : A2118

Study Mode :
Full Time

Duration : 2 years

Cost :
Free

• 5 GCSEs at Grade 5 or above including English and Mathematics or a relevant Level 2 qualification.

• Unit 01 Prepare for a career in a chosen uniformed service
• Unit 02 Develop aspects of physical fitness for entry to the uniformed services
• Unit 03 Develop leadership skills
• Unit 04 Equality, diversity and inclusion
• Unit 05 Uniformed services hierarchy and routine
• Unit 06 Values and standards
• Unit 07 Mental and physical wellbeing
• Unit 08 Carry out map reading and navigation across open country
• Unit 09 Telecommunications in the uniformed services
• Unit 10 Understand conflict management and personal protection
• Unit 12 Collaboration between uniformed services
• Unit 13 Emergency planning and response in the uniformed services
• Unit 16 Skills for land‑based outdoor and adventurous activities
• Unit 17 Skills for water‑based outdoor and adventurous activities
• Unit 19 Understanding discipline in the uniformed services
• Unit 20 UK legal systems and uniformed services
• Unit 25 Security procedures in the uniformed services

Assessment across the Level 3 course is varied to develop key skills required to enter a Uniformed Service. These methods can include coursework, active learning tasks, practical learning tasks, case studies, reports, role plays, discussions, table top exercises and presentations. Assessment is varied based on the units studied with the overall aim of developing a well‑rounded individual ready to progress to a higher level of study or employment.

You will be assessed continually throughout the academic years to track progress and development.

Criminologist, Fire and Rescue Officer, HM Revenue and Customs (Border Force), Immigration Officer, Local Government Officer, Member of the Armed Forces, Paramedic, Police Officer, Prison Officer, Probation Worker, Social Worker, Solicitor.

Advice and guidance on appropriate kit and excursion costs will be provided at enrolment.

Alongside your studies, you’ll take part in a wide range of enrichment opportunities designed to build your skills and give you unforgettable experiences. Past activities have included Army and Navy/Marines residentials, RAF team‑building challenges, Fire and Rescue Service visits, and Police service visits. Learners have also travelled to London to tour the Houses of Parliament and even to New York City, exploring one of the world’s most iconic destinations.

Closer to home, you’ll take part in expeditions and walks, get involved in community service projects, and contribute to activities that develop leadership, teamwork and a sense of civic responsibility. These opportunities are all about preparing you for the demands of the services while giving you experiences you’ll never forget.

Students and Apprentices under 19 do not normally pay tuition or exam fees, except for University level courses. However, you may need to pay for materials, visits, uniform, equipment and books depending on your study programme. Please find more information on fees and financial support here or call Student Services for more information on

• 02/09/2026

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