Start: September 2026
Duration: 18 - 24 Months
Code: ED3UPPF1KN

Course Overview

The Level 3 Protective Services Extended Diploma is designed for learners who want to build the knowledge, confidence, and practical skills required for careers in public safety, security, and the uniformed services.

Through a combination of theory, practical training, real-life simulations, and outdoor activities, you'll develop a strong understanding of emergency response, leadership, teamwork, conflict resolution, and risk management. You'll be taught by experienced staff with backgrounds in the uniformed services, who will support you throughout your journey while sharing valuable industry insight.

As part of Weston College's Public Services Career Excellence Hub, you'll have opportunities to engage with employers including the Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, Royal Marines, Police, and Fire and Rescue Service through guest speakers, work experience, employer visits, and careers events.

What will I study?

You'll develop your knowledge, fitness, and leadership skills through a wide range of practical and theoretical topics, including:

• Citizenship and diversity
• Behaviour and discipline
• Government and the protective services
• Global affairs and the media
• Planning for and responding to emergency incidents
• Physical preparation, health, and wellbeing
• Teamwork, leadership, and communication
• Sociological perspectives
• Outdoor activity skills
• Introduction to criminology

Alongside your main programme, you'll continue to develop your maths and English skills (where required), attend tutorials and Individual Development sessions, and complete a work placement or extended industry placement.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment includes a combination of:

• Written examinations
• Coursework assignments
• Presentations
• Practical activities and assessments

Entry Requirements

You'll need:

• A minimum of five GCSEs at grades 9–4, including English and maths, or a relevant Level 2 qualification.

You should also have a genuine interest in protective services and the career opportunities available within the sector.

Additional Information

Facilities and Industry Experience

Throughout your course you'll benefit from:

• Membership of the Public Services Career Excellence Hub
• Employer talks and networking with the Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, Royal Marines, Police, Fire and Rescue Service, and other organisations
• Work placements and industry engagement opportunities
• Access to Weston College's climbing and bouldering wall, fitness suite, and 3G pitch
• Outdoor training using Weston Woods and the local coastline for activities such as beach fitness sessions and orienteering

Trips and Outdoor Activities

The course includes a varied programme of adventurous activities designed to develop resilience, teamwork, leadership, and confidence, including:

• Coasteering
• Canoeing
• Mountain and hill expeditions
• Camping and outdoor residentials
• Climbing and abseiling
• Orienteering
• Visits to emergency services and military bases

What can I do after this course?

Successful completion of this programme could lead to:

• Careers in the armed forces, emergency services, policing, security, or the wider protective services sector
• Higher education, including the BA (Hons) Uniformed and Public Services at University Centre Weston

What do I do now?

Ready to apply? – Please use the ‘apply now’ button on this page.

Want to learn more? – Visit the campus, explore the facilities, and speak to our tutors at one of our Open Events.

Have a quick question? – Use our Live Chat facility on the bottom right of this page.

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