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Protective Services

STUDYING PROTECTIVE SERVICES AT WESTON COLLEGE 

If life as a paramedic, police officer or member of the armed services appeals to you, then our protective services courses will suit you perfectly. There are many exciting job opportunities in the protective services that help keep our communities safe and thriving.

You will learn from lecturers that have industry experience and can provide insight into life in protective services and prepare you in a structured and supportive environment. You will develop your employability skills, physical fitness and academic thinking, which gives you the opportunity to enter employment when you finish the course or progress on to university.

Whatever your ultimate career goal, you will need to be dedicated and highly disciplined. Your physical fitness is hugely important for certain front-line roles, whereas strong administration and organisational skills are better suited to more supportive positions.

Our staff have had fantastic careers within the protective and uniformed services. They’ll pass on their hands-on knowledge and experience to you as you train to enter the service of your choice.

We also offer outdoor adventure residential trips and visits including camping, canoeing, orienteering, abseiling and climbing.

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We've bundled the best education in the area with career boosted benefits - and are leveraging our contacts as one of the largest Colleges in the country to give you the best possible chance of success.

We are about careers not courses, so you get the opportunity to gain work experience, connection with employers and work-related projects to give you a head start in your chosen career. Guest speakers will visit us and give you real insight into a career in the sector.

Our programmes are endorsed by:

avon and somerset police logo
avon fire and rescue logo
royal airforce logo
Royal navy logo
british army logo
royal marines

FIND OUT MORE

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Level 1

Outdoor Adventure Course

1 Year
Sep 2026
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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Step into a year of adventure, growth, and unforgettable experiences. Our 1-Year Level 1 Outdoor Adventure Course is perfect for anyone looking to build confidence, practical skills, and a connection with the natural world. Whether you’re leaving school, exploring a new direction, or simply craving something different—this course is your ...

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Level 2

Uniformed Services (Entry into), Diploma

1 Year
Sep 2026
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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If you want a dynamic and impactful career in public services, the Entry into Public Services Diploma offers an ideal starting point. This comprehensive programme is designed to equip you with the essential skills, knowledge, and experience needed to excel in a wide range of public service roles. Course Overview By joining our Public Services...

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Level 3

Operational Firefighter, Apprenticeship

24 Months
Aug 2026
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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Become a firefighter, and earn while you learn, with this apprenticeship which is open to anyone over the age of 18. Firefighters tackle a wide range of emergencies, where problem resolving is vital, carried out in a calm and quick manner. Emergencies can involve tackling fires, searching and rescuing people and animals, and protecting agains...

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Level 3

Protective Services, Extended Diploma

18 - 24 Months
Sep 2026
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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If you have a passion for protecting and serving others, the Protective Services Extended Diploma offers a comprehensive and specialised programme to launch your career in the field of public safety and security. Course Overview Whether you see yourself as a security officer, prison officer, or private investigator, this diploma will provide ...

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WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY

Kacper at Awards
Kacper
Work experience with the Army was beneficial as it allowed me to enhance my knowledge and improve skills that would be required for my chosen career path, whilst also gaining an understanding of potential options I could have in life
Studied:

Uniformed Protective Services, Level 3 Extended Diploma

Fibi
It was so beneficial to be surrounded with those that had experience and knowledge of roles within the public services, which is evident in their style of teaching.
Studied:

Unformed Public Services, Level 3 Extended Diploma

LATEST NEWS

Students stroking the piglets at Puxton Park

<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Last week, Weston College opened its doors to new and returning students as they embarked on the start of the new academic year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Over three days, each CEH area welcomed first-year students with a wide variety of activities designed to help them settle in, build friendships, and get familiar with both their learning environment and the tools they’ll be using throughout their studies.&nbsp;</p><p>The college executive team ran Welcome Talks across Knightstone, Loxton and South West Skills campus in order to introduce themselves to the students and outline the expectations for the upcoming year.&nbsp;Students were also shown the key college policies and procedures to ensure they are fully prepared for the year ahead.&nbsp;</p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Deputy Principals, Gary and Ben, outlining the expectations and policies at Weston College&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7e8770a-f4a7-4a9a-8671-b4668ac51faf" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_500x500&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity><p>Across all campuses, faculties organised engaging activities that blended fun with learning. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/anima… Management</u></strong></a> students, for example, took a tour of Puxton Park facilities where they met the animals before participating in a game of crazy golf, water rafting, and a tractor ride across the park.&nbsp;</p><p><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/busin…; and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/trave…; students took part in themed activities such as filling out passports and a mini-Sports Day, encouraging teamwork and collaboration. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/educa… Years</u></strong></a> students explored their creativity through crafts, while <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d… &amp; Design</u></strong></a> students designed and produced album covers and playing cards.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Some departments jumped straight into hands-on learning, with <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi… &amp; Catering</u></strong></a> and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-…; </strong>&amp;<strong> </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut…; students getting involved with styling techniques and Ready Steady Cook, showcasing their practical skills and gaining a clearer picture of their courses.&nbsp;</p><p>In <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…;, students took on a range of exciting challenges including peer interviews, creating time-capsule messages for their future selves, tackling a TV sitcom project, and reimagining classic fairytales. These activities highlighted both the practical nature of the subject and the creative freedom it offers.&nbsp;</p><p><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/level… Form</u></strong></a> students took part in a scavenger hunt to explore their campus, while Photography students sharpened their technical skills by taking headshots of classmates. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt… &amp; Social Care</u></strong></a> students worked with interactive simulation dummies and conducted lab-based solution testing, whilst <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport…; students jumped straight into energetic team-building activities, from basketball to a lively game of human battleships.&nbsp;</p><p><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat… Arts</u></strong></a> created a welcoming atmosphere with fun icebreaker games such as team shuffle races, human rock-paper-scissors, and human snap—ensuring plenty of laughter and bonding.&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, departments including <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/motor…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/engin…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat… &amp; Animation</u></strong></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d… Design</u></strong></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… Services</u></strong></a> all ran engaging icebreaker and problem-solving activities that encouraged teamwork and introduced students to course-related challenges.&nbsp;</p><p>These Welcome Days not only ease the transition into college life but also build confidence and friendships from day one. At Weston College, we understand that starting college can feel daunting, which is why we’re committed to making the experience as engaging and enjoyable as possible for every learner.&nbsp;</p><p>After such a positive start, we can’t wait to see what our students go on to achieve throughout this academic year!&nbsp;</p><p><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds"><u>If you would like to join us, it’s not too late to apply for this academic year. Click here to see our courses.</u></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Student sat at a computer smiling

<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">Level 1 courses are a great way to build a foundation of knowledge around a subject, introducing you at a more flexible and slower pace whilst building your skills and preparing you to progress onto Level 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>There are many benefits to a Level 1 course. They create a foundation of knowledge for learners, building a solid base of information and skills which make them ideal for beginners. Not only this, they also build confidence in unfamiliar areas and act as a stepping stone to more advanced qualifications. They are also more accessible and flexible to a wider range of students.&nbsp;</p><p>Our Level 1 courses vary in entry requirements, with most courses requiring 5 GCSEs grade 3-1 with at least two grade 3 results. On some courses, it is also required to gain at least a grade 2 in GCSE Maths and English. This makes our Level 1 courses accessible to give you the knowledge and skills to succeed and progress to the Level 2 courses.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">With this level of qualification, you could move onto a Level 2 study programme or an apprenticeship at Level 2, this includes technical qualifications such as diplomas, certificates and NVQs at level 2, transitioning to T Level Programme, or intermediate apprenticeships.</p><p>At Weston College, we have many Level 1 courses available, including <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/anima… Management</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d… and Design</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/educa… Years</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt… and Social Care</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi… and Catering</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… and Production</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… Services</u></a>, and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport… you are unsure of what course level is best for you, check out our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/which-level-right-me"><u>Leve… Explained</u></a> page to gain a more in-depth understanding.&nbsp;</p><p>If you are still unsure, email <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="mailto:enquiries@weston.ac.uk"><u>enquiries@weston.ac.uk</u></a&gt; or visit one of our campuses and speak to the team for help.</p>

Helicopter flying through the sky

<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Weston College Protective Services are thrilled to announce a brand-new course for September 2025, the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… 1 Outdoor Adventure</u></a> Course. This is an active, adventurous and practical course that will give students an unforgettable experience and lay the foundation to become part of the future generation of Protective Service workers.&nbsp;</p><p><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… Protective Services</u></a> (UPS) is a diverse and fast-paced course, allowing students to explore the different career opportunities within the Armed Forces. This dynamic course is perfect for students who want to work in a hands-on environment, improving their fitness and stamina, whilst developing their transferrable lifesaving skills.&nbsp;</p><p>The new Level 1 course will be led by one of our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… Services</u></a> lecturers, David Usher, who currently teaches some of the Level 1, 2 and 3 courses, with a professional background in the Royal Air Force Regiment.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What is the </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… 1 Outdoor Adventure Course</u></strong></a><strong>?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>This course offers a year filled with adventure, personal growth, and unforgettable experiences. Our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… 1 Protective Services</u></a> course is ideal for anyone seeking to build confidence, gain practical skills, and deepen their understanding of the roles in <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… Services</u></a>. Whether you're finishing school, exploring a new direction, or seeking a fresh challenge, this course is the perfect starting point.&nbsp;</p><p>You will be studying units such as navigation and map reading, teamwork and leadership, outdoor first aid, expedition planning, rock climbing and water-based activities. In addition, you'll engage in exciting activities such as coasteering, climbing, and kayaking, whilst getting the chance to connect with employers and serving personnel across various sectors, such as the fire service, military, and prison service.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Why choose this course?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>This course offers a highly practical approach compared to other courses at the college, providing an excellent opportunity to develop essential skills like leadership, teamwork, and confidence. It offers many hands-on and immersive activities outside of the classroom, providing a solid foundation for the different Protective Services career options.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>If you're uncertain about your path in college, this <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… 1 Outdoor Adventure</u></a> course will help you explore a variety of career options while offering a year filled with exciting activities and experiences throughout your time with us.&nbsp;</p>

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