BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Uniformed Protective Services
The Uniformed Protective Services sector is diverse and encompasses varied uniformed public services such as the police service, the fire and rescue service, the armed services, and the prison service. This course will support progression into any of these routes and more.
Why choose this course?
This course has been developed in consultation with academics to ensure that it supports progression to Higher Education. Employers from the protective services have also been involved so that the qualification content is appropriate for those who choose to enter direct employment. The course will aid understanding of the Government and the wider uniformed protective services sector and encourages consideration of current affairs and media in a global context. Course content will help to develop essential skills and knowledge, such as research, presentation, and report-writing. Â The building of confidence, through understanding and improving ability in outdoor activities, physical fitness, discipline, teamwork, and communication is a core aim.
Apply for this course
Start date: 08/09/2025
Top course highlights
Experienced Lecturers
Confidence Building
Develop Personal Fitness
Problem Solving
Industry Links
Learn from sector experts
You will be taught by staff with extensive experience who will advance your knowledge and skills to meet the expectations of the uniformed protective services sector.
Develop work-related skills
During your programme, you will develop personal and work-related skills which will help prepare you for full-time work after you have completed college.
Enjoy professional surroundings
Our teaching areas are kitted out with excellent equipment and resources. We enjoy relationships with many of the uniformed protective services that help support the delivery.
What will I learn?
Over the two years of the course, you will cover thirteen units which are assessed by a combination of written and practical assignments or by exams (units in bold are examined units):
- Citizenship and Diversity
- Behaviour and Discipline (1st year exam)
- Global Affairs, the Media, and the Uniformed Protective Services
- Physical Preparation, Health and Wellbeing
- Teamwork, Leadership and Communication
- Government and the Protective Services (2nd year exam)
- Planning for and Responding to Emergency Incidents
- Custodial Care
- Skills for Outdoor Activities
- Developing Personal Fitness Programmes
- Introduction to Criminology
- Police Powers and the Law
- Professional Development
In addition, the qualification will develop your transferable and higher-order skills, including:
- Cognitive and problem-solving through the application of critical thinking, systems, and technology.
- Interpersonal skills including Negotiation, Influence, self – presentation, communication, and collaboration,
- Intrapersonal skills such as self-management, adaptability, resilience, self-monitoring and development.
Where will it take me?
Successful completion of this course can lead to direct employment in the Armed Services, Emergency Services or Prison Service. You can also progress directly onto university and study a degree such as Public Services, Policing, Law and Criminology.
Assessment Arrangements
You will be assessed using a combination of internal assessments, which are set and marked by college lecturers, and external assessments that are set and marked by Pearson.
Internal assessments will take the form of; written reports, time-constrained practical assessments with observation records and supporting evidence, recordings of performance, working logbooks, reflective journals, and presentations with assessor questioning.
For the two external assessments you will complete written examinations that demonstrate your knowledge in the two areas. Each assessment consists of short- and long-answer questions related to the sector and how it operates.
Entry Requirements
You will need four GCSEs at a minimum of Grade 4, to include either English Language or Literature and/or Maths. A level 2 Diploma at Merit in an appropriate subject can also be considered (plus English and/or Maths at grade 4).
Information & Support
Independent assignment work will be supported through PowerPoints, worksheets, and other guides available through our Sharepoint. College trips to relevant protective services employees will be offered and we also encourage you to actively work on your fitness to support future job applications.
Working within the Student Services area, the Student Support team will see you on a one-to-one basis and offer advice and guidance on financial, personal, and emotional issues. A professional team of staff work together with your personal tutor to support you so that you can successfully complete your course and recognise pathways to progression after leaving College.
For more information, email vickyp@truro-penwith.ac.uk.
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Meet the staff, tour the campus and find out about life as a student at one of the best colleges in the country.
What you could earn
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