Start Date
- September 2026, Full Time, Day
What You Will Study
The course is designed to stretch students both academically and physically and prepare them for their future careers in the Uniformed Public Services.
You will study the NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma for Entry to the Uniformed Services.
The course will allow you to explore a variety of uniformed public services and the job opportunities each one presents. This is achieved through academic study, exposure to serving members of the uniformed public services and participating in a variety of practical and physical activities which at times will emulate industry standards.
An emphasis on personal development is key to you successfully completing the course. Throughout the course you will be challenged to enable you to achieve your maximum potential and ensure you have the correct skillset required, when entering the uniformed public services.
Throughout the programme of study you will have regular opportunities to work practically with Norfolk Police, the Prison Service, Norfolk Fire and Rescue, the Royal Navy, the British Army and the Royal Air Force. You will also observe trials at the Magistrate and Crown courts, visit the Norfolk Police training facility, complete simulated Crime Scene Investigation and Major Incident planning the Norfolk Resilience Forum. We have regular guest speakers which include the Probation Service, Crown Prosecution Service, Senior CSI, Senior Investigating Officers, Norfolk Police specialist teams (firearms, drones) and the East of England Ambulance Trust, including the Air Ambulance.
During the second year you will take part in an expedition, which has previously been to the Lake District with the Outward Bound Trust which brings together all the skills and qualities you have developed over the two years.
Why Choose Easton College?
Strong industry links
You will gain an outstanding insight into the industry due to our links with the Police Force, Fire Service, Military, Prison Service and other public sector organisations.
Excellent career prospects
The public services sector offers lots of varied and rewarding careers. The armed forces and security services accept over 11,000 new recruits each year and are often among the top graduate employers.
A life changing career
Public services careers make a real difference to be peoples lives, keeping the public safe.
Entry Requirements
Academic requirements:
- Achieve five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths.
Additional requirements:
- Completion of online ‘Easton Applicant Information Form’ via the QR Code
- A reference
- Attend a Curriculum Taster Day
- Completion of Summer Task (which you will receive on your Taster Day).
How You Will Be Assessed
Assessment is carried out throughout the academic year by the departmental staff and verified externally by the awarding body. You will be expected to compile reports, carry out individual research, present information to both your peers and teaching staff and complete both practical based activities and scenarios. This varied approach to assessment is designed to promote independence and encourage you to take ownership of your own learning.
You will study and be assessed on units such as:
Year 1:
- 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
- ICT in the uniformed services
- Understanding discipline in the uniformed services
- Carry out map reading and navigation across open country
- Understand conflict management and personal protection
- Volunteering in the uniformed services
Year 2:
- Telecommunications in the uniformed services
- Influence of UK government, international organisations and the media on the uniformed services
- Emergency planning and response in the uniformed services
- Understand the impact of war and conflict on the uniformed services
- Outdoor and adventurous expeditions
- Uniformed services hierarchy and routine
- UK legal systems and uniformed services
- Crime scene investigation
- Security procedure in the uniformed services
Please note that units are reviewed every year and are subject to change.
Course Progression
Upon successful completion of this course, you will achieve UCAS points which allow progression onto Higher Education. You may also choose to progress into employment or an apprenticeship.
Where Your Course Can Take You
Students who have previously completed the course have been successful in joining the police service as constables, civilian staff and volunteers, becoming wholetime firefighters and probation officers, as well as serving in His Majesty’s prison service. Students have also been successful in pursuing military careers in the Royal Navy, the Royal Marines, and the British Army to name just a few!
The course leans well, however, to many other careers in the public sector, including the wider criminal justice system, local council and government. All jobs where you can make a difference and have a positive impact on society and your community.
Fees
If you are a UK or home fee status student and aged 16-18 on the 31st August before the start of your course, tuition fees are free. If you are aged 19 and over fees may be payable.
All of our Uniformed Services students wear a uniform which costs approximately £100. Currently we are planning for students to take part in the following residential trips across two academic years to support development and meet key assessment criteria. These currently include (although are subject to change):
Year 1 - Local multi-day expedition - estimated cost £50
Year 2 - Week-long residential with Outward Bound Trust - estimated cost £400
There may be other opportunities throughout the academic year that may have a cost attached to them, but these will be optional.
Financial support may be available depending on your circumstances.
Please check our Finance pages for fee information and any financial help that may be available.
