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Course Summary

The NCFE Entry to the Uniformed Services Diploma Level 3 course is an exciting and dynamic two-year course designed to prepare students for careers in the Uniformed Public Services or progression to Higher Education. It offers a blend of classroom learning and practical outdoor activities, ensuring a well-rounded experience. The course develops transferable skills, such as teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and resilience, all of which are highly valued in both the workplace and higher education.

Boston College works in partnership with Lincolnshire Police, the RAF, the Royal Navy, the British Army, and other public service organisations, providing students with real-world insights and practical training. In the first year, students will complete the Entry to the Uniformed Services Diploma Level 3. Upon successful completion of the first year, you will progress to the Entry to the Uniformed Public Services National Extended Diploma Level 3 in the second year, further developing your skills and knowledge.

The course encourages key values, including curiosity, independence, resilience, and self-awareness, helping students build a strong foundation for a career in public service. With a combination of theory-based learning and hands-on experiences, this qualification supports progression into careers within the Armed Forces, emergency services, or security sectors, as well as Higher Education opportunities in related fields.

What else do I need to know?

During the course, you will cover a variety of topics including:

Year 1:

  • Prepare for a Career in a Chosen Uniformed Public Service
  • Develop Aspects of Physical Fitness for Entry to the Uniformed Services
  • Develop Leadership Skills
  • Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
  • Uniformed Services Hierarchy and Routine
  • Mental and Physical Wellbeing
  • Understand Conflict Management and Personal Protection
  • Sports Coaching
  • Understanding Discipline in the Uniformed Public Services
 

Year 2:

  • Volunteering Opportunities
  • Telecommunications in the Uniformed Public Services
  • Emergency Planning and Response in the Uniformed Public Services
  • Skills for Land-based Outdoor and Adventurous Activities
  • Outdoor and Adventurous Expeditions
  • Crime Scene Investigation
  • UK Legal Systems and Uniformed Public Services
  • Security Procedures in the Uniformed Public Services
 

Please note that modules are subject to change.

During the year, you will undertake meaningful work experience to develop your interpersonal skills and enhance your employment prospects. You will also take part in visits and activities which may include:

  • Presentations at the College by the RAF, Army, Navy, Police and Fire Service
  • Personal development activities with the Army
 

You will also have the opportunity to complete the following qualifications:

  • Earth Week – Tackling the Climate Emergency Level 3
  • Emergency First Aid at Work Award Level 3
  • Digital Skills Level 3
  • Outdoor Skills Level 3
  • Skills Preparation for Service Life

To study the Entry to the Uniformed Services Diploma Level 3, you will need 5 GCSEs including English and Maths, Functional Skills English and Maths Level 2.

The Entry to the Uniformed Services Diploma Level 3 will take you 1 year to complete. You will attend college for up to 5 days per week at our Rochford Campus in Boston or our Peter Paine Performance Centre in Boston, plus approximately 24 hours of independent study per week.

This course is free if you are under the age of 19 on 31 August of the year you start the course.

If you are aged 19+, this course will cost: £4170.

Fee remission may be available depending on your personal circumstances. For further information, please contact the Registry Department on 01205 365701 or email fees@boston.ac.uk, or visit our Financial Support & Funding page.

Please note that all fees are subject to change.

You will be assessed mainly by coursework, including observations and written assessments.

Successfully completing the Entry to the Uniformed Services Diploma Level 3 opens doors to a wide range of opportunities in both Higher Education and employment. This qualification provides the essential skills, knowledge, and experience needed to pursue careers in the Armed Forces, Emergency Services, security, and other public service sectors. Additionally, it serves as a strong foundation for University Level study, leading to Degrees in Public Services, Criminology, Policing, or related fields, enhancing career prospects even further.

Additional costs will include purchase of uniform at approximately £60.

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