BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Uniformed Protective Services

The uniformed protective services sector is diverse and encompasses uniformed public services such as the police service, the fire and rescue service, the armed services, and the prison service.

Key information

Sport & Protective Services / Full Time / Level 3 Extended Diploma

Why choose this course?

The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Uniformed Protective Services has been developed in consultation with academics to ensure that it supports progression to higher education. Employers from the protective services have been involved so that the qualification content is appropriate for those who choose to enter direct employment.

Top Course Highlights

Experienced lecturers / Confidence building / Develop personal fitness / Problem solving / Industry links

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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?

The course content will help to develop essential skills and knowledge, such as research, presentation, and report-writing. The building of confidence, through understanding and improving ability in outdoor activities, physical fitness, discipline, teamwork, and communication is a core aim. The demonstration that sensitivity and openness are equally important assets when working with diverse groups is also explored. The course will develop career aspirations, with trips to military bases, fire stations, police stations, universities, multi-day expeditions and various guest speakers from relevant industries. The opportunity to complete Gold Duke of Edinburgh to run in conjunction with the course is encouraged.

Over the two years of the course, you will cover thirteen modules which are assessed by a combination of written and practical assignments or by exams (modules in bold are examined modules):

Year 1

Citizenship and Diversity 2 x Assignments

Behaviour and Discipline in the Uniformed Protective Services 1 x Exam

Professional Development 2 x Assignments

Physical Preparation, Health, and Wellbeing 3 x Assignments

Teamwork, Leadership and Communication 2 x Assignments

Expedition Skills (Linked to Gold Duke of Edinburgh) 2 x Assignments

Year 2

Global Affairs, the Media, and the Uniformed Protective Services 2 x Assignments

Government and the Protective Services 1 x Exam

Planning for and Responding to Emergency Incidents 2 x Assignments

Understanding the Third Sector (Linked to Gold Duke of Edinburgh) 2 x Assignments

Developing Personal Fitness Programmes 2 x Assignments

Introduction to Criminology 2 x Assignments

Police Powers and the Law 2x Assignments

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.

Assessment Arrangements

Over the two year course you will complete compulsory assignments for the internally assessed units which could include written reports, presentations and practical demonstrations. The externally assessed units will involve formal examinations and controlled assessments.

Information and support

Throughout the course you will be required to complete at least 10 hours of independent study time per week. To support you in this you will have access to lecturers via email and will be able to access support materials and resources via our virtual learning environment - Sharepoint.

As a vocational Protective Services course, you will be expected to wear appropriate sports kit for relevant units, which can be purchased from the College at an additional cost. Purchase is not compulsory, but we would expect one item of Callywith College kit to be available to wear when representing the College. 

What will I need?

You will need four GCSEs at 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).

Where will it take me?

This qualification is intended to support progression to employment in the uniformed protective services. The shift towards increased graduate employment in the sector, for example in the police service dictates that suitable study to provide H.E options is essential.

The qualification carries UCAS points and is recognised by universities as providing the admission requirements for many relevant courses. Students can go on to study in a range of disciplines, for example:

BA (Hons) in Public Services
BA (Hons) in Policing
BA (Hons) in Criminology
BSc (Hons) in Fire and Rescue
BA (Hons) in Social Work
BA (Hons) in Sociology
LLB (Hons) in Law

However, the course also develops the individual for direct progression into employment. It provides the knowledge and understanding required to apply for a range of entry-level roles or an apprenticeship. for example:

British Army
Royal Navy/Royal Marines
Royal Air Force
The Police Service
Fire and Rescue Service
HM Revenue & Customs
HM Prison Service
Coastguard / Lifeguard
Local Authorities
Central Government
Travel & Tourism
Retail Management
Hospitality
Fitness Industry

Additional information

Awarding body: Pearson

For further information please feel free to contact the Coordinator for Protective Services, Matt Kennedy-Smith at mattk@callywith.ac.uk

How to apply to Callywith College

Find out HOW TO APPLY