Preparation for Public Services - Level 2 Diploma

The BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Preparation for Public Services is designed to equip you with the knowledge, understanding, self-discipline and skills required for success when moving towards a career in the uniformed services, including police service, fire and rescue service, law, prison service, paramedic science or armed forces.

The course allows you to investigate the uniformed services; what they are and what careers are available to you. You will, through the units chosen, find out what people in the different services do in their job roles, how they work and how they interact with each other through multi-agency working.

Units within the course will allow you to discover the levels of fitness required for each of the uniformed services and the difference between the armed forces, police, fire and rescue service. This course is delivered through a mixture of lectures, practical activities, outside visits and visiting specialist speakers from the industry sector. There will also be workshops and tutorials relating to the assignment programme.

Content that may be included:

• Health and Fitness for Entry to the Uniformed Public Services
• Expedition and Land Navigation Skills
• Employment in the Uniformed Public Services
• Crime & its Effects on Society
• Community and Cultural Awareness
• Public Service Skills and Support for the Community
• Security Procedures in the Public Services
• Activities and Teamwork for the Public Services

You will need: Four GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English Language and Maths or a Level 1 Diploma in an appropriate subject, with Functional Skills in Maths and English at Level 1 All applicants must have an interview and assessment to confirm that the course is suitable for them.

You will be assessed by a range of methods, including written assignments, practical assessments and in-class presentations.  The course includes elements of physical training and assessment of stamina, muscular endurance and physical fitness. 

School Leavers

If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31 August in the year you begin your course, and have been resident in the UK/EU/EEA for the past 3 years, it will be free. Some courses will have other costs associated, such as for materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support when studying at college – please click here for more information.

Upon completion of the BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Preparation for Public Services learners can progress into employment on the armed services or progress to higher level qualification (The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Unformed Protective Services ) or apprenticeship programmes.