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Uniformed, Public & Defence Services – Level 3

NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma

policewoman standing in front of Buckingham palace

Availability & Details

Uniformed Public & Defence and Services - NCFE Level 3 Diploma SF1-PSRV3D/C01

Venue
South Downs Campus

Type of study
Vocational

Dates
Academic Year 2025-26 (2 years)

Examination board
NCFE

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Overview

The course aims to develop specialist service- related knowledge. The course also covers how the public or uniformed services work, social studies to give you an understanding of the environment they operate in and practical subjects to develop your fitness and understanding of the physical aspects required for each service. There is a range of both theory and practical units within the course and you will be expected to complete a portfolio of evidence, based on the assignment work you are issued within your lessons. You will benefit from studying in locations such as Fort Purbrook and the Defence School of Policing and Guarding at Southwick Park. You will also undertake residentials in locations such as the New Forest, Dartmoor and North Wales and experience field trips to places that include Parliament and the Imperial War Museum. In addition, you will develop service essential skills, including undertaking conformity simulations, such as a remembrance and pass off parade. You will also be given the opportunity to join the Combined Cadet Force where you can add to your skill set and knowledge.

Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including Mathematics or English. If you are re-applying to College, you must have completed an appropriate Level 2 Diploma with a Distinction profile and a good report from your tutor. 

This is a full time course, covering the following 18 units across two years:Year 1 units– Prepare for a career in a chosen uniformed service– Develop aspects of physical fitness for entry to the uniformed services– Develop leadership skills– Equality, diversity and inclusion– Carry out map reading and navigation across open country– Telecommunications in the uniformed services– The influence of the UK government, international organisations and the media on the uniformed services- Skills for land-based outdoor and adventurous activities– UK legal systems and uniformed servicesYear 2 units– Mental and physical wellbeing– Emergency planning and response in the uniformed services– Understand the impact of war and conflict on uniformed services– Sports coaching– Skills for water-based outdoor and adventurous activities– Outdoor and adventurous expeditions– Understanding discipline in the uniformed services– Crime scene investigation– Security procedures in the uniformed services

Lessons are taught on the South Downs Campus and you will attend a satellite location of Fort Purbrook for Year 1 and the Defence School of Policing and Guarding at Southwick Park for Year 2, one day a week.

You will work through a continuous programme of assignments, class activities, practical tasks, discussions, presentations, written reports, voluntary work, organising events and some group work. Each assessment will be graded against the unit criteria and from there you will get an overall grade (Pass, Merit or Distinction).

On completion of this course, you could go on to secure employment including HM Forces, study at Higher Education level (HND/ undergraduate degree) or an Apprenticeship (police).


The tutors were really supportive and it was all thanks to them that I have achieved what I have. I’ve also made loads of great friends and really enjoyed my time at the college.

Lizaveta Sinkerich, A Level student

My experience at the college was enjoyable and productive, with thoroughly helpful people surrounding you, an excellent experience. I wasn’t expecting it to be as good as it was, with the work shop time and experience I had, it was a great two years preparing me for the next stage.

Edward Smith, BTEC student

"I am delighted with my results and am really looking forward to studying Law at Oxford University. I really enjoyed my time at HSDC Alton and I really appreciate all the help and support from my fantastic teachers, without whom I wouldn't have got my place at Oxford."

Catherine Goldie, HSDC Alton A Level Student