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Uniformed, Public & Defence Services – Level 1

Level 1 Diploma

public services students in a field doing an obstacle course involving tires and planks

Availability & Details

Uniformed, Public & Defence Services - Level 1 SFY-SPUS1D/C01

Venue
South Downs Campus

Type of study
Vocational

Dates
Academic Year 2026-27 (1 year)

Examination board
NCFE

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How to apply

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Overview

The course focuses on commitment, determination and respect. You must have the desire to represent your country, and the willingness to develop personal and social skills necessary for a life in the services. You will take part in regular fitness testing, including a military swim test, to assess your progress and set new goals. You will learn about service routine and perform drill for Remembrance Day and at your end of year Pass-Off Parade. There will also be map and navigation days and an adventurous activities residential to Tile Barn.

We have a strong bond with the Armed Forces Careers Office (AFCO), offering employer engagement, through regular guest speakers and look at life experiences for a variety of the armed forces career paths. HSDC has its own Combined Cadet Force (CCF), which students are encouraged to join unless already involved in a cadet programme, that can enhance a Uniformed Services experience.

Although no formal qualifications are necessary, prospective candidates must have a satisfactory school report and a reasonable level of literacy needed for them to comply with the written aspects of the course.

Within the units below, individuals are required to demonstrate knowledge and skills for employment:

  • Preparation for entry to the uniformed service of your choice
  • Physical fitness
  • Teamwork
  • Map reading and navigation
  • Participate in an adventurous activity
  • Health & safety in the uniformed services
  • Participate in competitive sports
  • Developing self discipline

All work will be continuously assessed using video and photographic evidence to support effective feedback. Google Classroom provides easy access to resources and relevant course or tutor related information.

All students will be expected to conform to a uniform dress code.

Successful completion of the course will offer progression to the NCFE Level 2 Uniformed Services or another suitable Level 2 course. You may wish to apply for entry to the armed forces or public services. You may also want an alternative career or Apprenticeship in another field, which can be supported by the HSDC Careers & Employability Team.

Successful completion of the course will enable you to proceed to the NCFE Level 2 in Preparation for Entry to Uniformed Services. If you wish to change direction, you can move to other courses within the area such as BTEC Level 2 Sport or Outdoor Education.


“HSDC provided me with the opportunity for autonomous study and the choice of subjects that I wanted to study, which helped me develop relevant knowledge as well as relevant skills for the workplace.”

Lucas Ratcliffe, A Level and CTEC student

My courses were all especially interesting, I thoroughly enjoyed all of them. All of my lecturers were extremely knowledgeable and I have learnt a lot from them.

Lottie Warren, A Level student

The teaching and support was really great, the quality was really great, all the teachers really care about your education as well as your wellbeing, they take everything into consideration and they’re great.

Katie Whittingham, A Level student