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Allow us to fire up your enthusiasm for a career in the armed forces, police force, ambulance service, prison service or the fire service. You?ll need plenty of self-discipline and motivation to meet the tough challenges of these careers.

Our programme provides you with a solid foundation so you?re well prepared with the skills and ability to take the next step into such demanding job roles. If you?ve got what it takes, we can help you with our links to organisations including Northamptonshire Police, Northamptonshire Fire & Rescue, Royal Navy, Royal Marine Commandos, Royal Air Force and the Army.

You will cover a variety of aspects of Uniformed Protective Services.

A second year of the course is available to all students who successfully achieve the Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Uniformed Protective Services in Year 1 and they will progress onto the Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Uniformed Protective Services which is equivalent to 3 'A' Levels.

The method of learning is a mixture of tutor led, role play and practical sessions. Tutors expect full participation in practical lessons. There are also two externally assessed examinations.

  • What will I study?

    The units you will study are likely to include:

    • Citizenship and Diversity
    • Behaviour and Discipline in the Uniformed Protective Services
    • Physical Preparation, Health and Wellbeing
    • Teamwork, Leadership and communication in the Uniformed Public Services
    • Government and the Protective Services
    • Skills for Outdoor Activities and the Uniformed Protective Services
    • Introduction to Criminology
    • Custodial Care
    • Criminal Investigation Procedure in Practice
    • Police Powers and the Law
    • Professional Development/Research skills

    All units are subject to change and may be withdrawn.

  • Who is this course for?

    This course is ideal for you if you have an interest in pursuing a career in the emergency, armed or prison services and wish to gain a Level 3 qualification in Uniform Protective Services.

  • How is the course assessed?

    A variety of methods of assessment will be used, for example, observation of practical lessons, professional discussions, written tasks, presentations, role play, continuous assessment of performance, attendance and attitude. In addition there two externally assessed examinations.

  • Your Study Programme

    If you are aged 16-18, you will join a Study Programme this could be a vocational or technical qualification. We will make sure you are working at the right level on your core qualification and are challenged to achieve the highest level of qualification you can.

    Work experience will be part of your study programme and complement your college study and prepare you for employment. You will also get involved in activities to help you develop life skills and to build your confidence so you can make progress in your career.

    Weekly timetables will include tutorial support which may comprise of full group activities or one to one sessions to discuss individual progress or support needs.

    All students will continue to improve their maths and English and if you don't have a grade 4 at GCSE, we will work with you towards achieving that goal (subject to specific entry requirements for particular courses).

  • Knowledge

    You will develop a thorough knowledge and understanding of:

    • Risks within the community and the control methods that can be used to mitigate these

    • How to prepare and maintain operational equipment and resources

    • Duty within legislation
  • Skills

    You will have the ability to:

    • Carry out safe working practices in accordance with legal requirements

    • Work safely and effectively in emergency situations, operating within an appropriate command and control system

    • Use and maintain specialist equipment
  • Behaviours

    What is required?

    • Commitment to integrity and diversity, understanding and adopting a fair and ethical approach and treating others with courtesy and respect

    • Confidence and resilience in highly challenging and changing situations, demonstrating reliability, adaptability, responsibility and accountability

    • Work collaboratively with others, both internally and externally
  • General info

    You will need to purchase a uniform including:

    • Boots and combat trousers, polo shirt and long sleeve shirt purchased from the college's preferred supplier. You will be sent the information and kit list, during the summer before you start the course.

    There will be trips and visits you need to attend that are essential to the completion of your course, and some financial contribution may be expected to participate in these learning opportunities.

    You must wear non-marking sole shoes for activities in the Sports Hall.

    Students from households with a low income may be eligible to apply for financial support from the college bursary fund. The bursary applications open from mid August on the college website under the section: Support for Students, Bursaries & Finance.

  • Progression and Career Opportunities

    Successful completion of this course will help you to join any of the armed forces or emergency services. You could choose employment in the following areas: Police Force, Fire and Rescue, Ambulance Service, Prison Service, Royal Navy, Royal Marines, Army, Royal Air Force, Customs and Excise, Coast Guard, Civil Service, Local Government, Security Industry or the Leisure Industry.

    Alternatively, you may wish to progress to university with the aim of fast-tracking to higher ranks within the Uniformed Services.

    You may also wish to apply for an Apprenticeship in Policing.

  • Entry Requirements for new students

    Four GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including English/English Language. Alternatively an appropriate Level 2 qualification with GCSE English at grade 4 and maths at grade 3.

  • Admissions Process

    We recommend that you attend one of our exciting open events so that you can look around the department, the college and meet the tutors. You are welcome to do this before or after you apply. These events have proved very successful in ensuring students and their families see the best of what the college has to offer such as our inspirational teaching areas, teachers, library facilities and places to eat.
    Once you have applied our experienced Enrolment Team will consider your application carefully and will let you know, by email, if the College would like to make you a conditional offer based on you meeting the specified entry requirements. If your predicted grades or career aims suggest that an alternative subject area or course level would be more appropriate for you at this stage, we will contact you either by telephone, email or text. If you have told us that you have some additional support needs we will contact you to find out more so that we can help you.