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Level 3 Extended Diploma in Uniformed Protective Services

  • BERKSHIRE COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
  • LEVEL 3
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Course Overview

Our Level 3 programme in Protective Services is designed to prepare you for the nature and pressure of public services work.

The course will give you an insight into the realities of working in a uniformed public service, the mixture of theoretical and practical subjects are delivered by experienced lecturers from Public service backgrounds, unit content is based on real-life workplace situations, activities and demands and will develop the essential skills and knowledge you will need to work in this sector.

This qualification will further develop learners, who have a strong interest in a career in the uniformed protective services.

These include the Armed Services; Royal Air Force, British Army, Royal Navy, and the Emergency Services; Police, PCSO, Ambulance, Paramedic, Fire and Rescue. Other services include the Prison service and HM Revenue and Customs

Why BCA?
At BCA we have:

98% pass rate on all Protective Service and Outdoor Education programmes
95% of our students progress into positive destinations
88% of our students achieve on or above their target grades
Excellent links with local employers and industry experts
All of our staff have extensive industry experience and qualifications
Outstanding facilities

Course Code

FF3CPUB1B0

End Date

Fri, 03 Jul 2026

Entry Requirements

Four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths or successful completion of a Level 2 qualification at Merit or Distinction level with GCSE ...

Course information

Government Policies and the Public Services
Leadership and Teamwork in the Public Services
Citizenship
Diversity and the Public Services
Understanding Discipline in the Uniformed Public Services
Physical Preparation, Health and Lifestyle for the Public Services
Understand the Impact of War, Conflict & Terrorism on Public Services
Crime & it’s Effects on Society
Police Powers in the Public Services
Exercise, Health & Lifestyle

2 years- There is an option for learners to study for a one year foundation diploma.

The course is delivered by experienced Lecturers with Public services backgrounds. The units are taught via a multitude of engaging and exciting methods including, role plays, guest speakers, trips and expedition alongside traditional lectures and interactive online learning.

Assessment is conducted via a selection following methods:
Presentations
Written reports
Practical observations
Discussions
Debates
Projects
There are two externally assessed units per year that are assessed via exams.

Students will begin on a one-year Foundation Diploma, equivalent to 1.5 A-Levels. Successful completion of year one will lead to progression onto the second year where they will study additional credits to achieve an Extended Diploma, equivalent to three A-Levels.

Please note: progression to the second year of study is dependent upon students achieving their target grade, maintaining college minimum expected attendance levels, professional conduct & behaviour on course, as well as positive references from the teaching team.

All students will participate in a number of scenario based exercises aimed to develop skills for working in pressurised environments. Students will also have opportunities to visit and participate in taster experiences for a number of public service roles.

Learners will begin on a one year 90 credit diploma, equivalent to 1.5 A-Levels.

Successful completion of year one will lead to progression onto the second year where you will study an additional 90 credits to achieve a fully Extended Diploma, equivalent to 3 A-Levels.

Completion of the Extended Diploma will lead to entry to a range of Higher Education programmes, apprenticeships or employment.

Level 3

This is a fast-paced course which encompasses the core values of the Protective Services, preparing you for application and selection in the sector. The course makes full use of the excellent facilities:

Modern classrooms, fully equipped with IT support
4 full-size football pitches
A state of the art sports hall, incorporating 4 badminton courts, a full-sized basketball court and cricket nets
Indoor and outdoor climbing facilities
High & low rope courses
Archery range
A fully-equipped fitness centre and a separate strength and conditioning facility

Uniform and PPE: All Protective Service students will be required to purchase the compulsory BCA kit, which is appropriate to their programme. We try to keep all compulsory kit bundles to a minimum cost and then give the option for you to purchase additional items. Clean, practical kit must be brought in every day.

You can place your kit order online and select the Protective Services option. You will have to register and create an account before ordering. Please refer to the size guide and ensure that the sizes you order are correct. Once the kit has been personalised with the BCA logo, refunds/exchanges will not be permitted.

Returning students are very welcome to order another complete bundle, however, you will already have some kit from last year, so you may decide just to order a few additional items. Please email Nicky Cornelius, Curriculum Assistant nacornelius@bca.ac.uk for the specific link to order individual items.

Stationary: All students will be required to bring appropriate stationery and a notebook to all lessons. We advise students to purchase a ring binder folder to keep class notes and resources in, for future reference. BCA do not supply pens, pencils, rulers or notepads. All students will be required to bring their own set of headphones for blended learning sessions. The headphones do not need to be expensive but must be P.C. compatible.

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