Uniformed Protective Services – Level 3 at Strode College

Course Type
School Leavers
Subject Area
Uniformed Protective Services
Location
Strode College
Start date
02/09/2026

Course Overview

This course will take place at Strode College. To find out more about Strode College, please click here.

The Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Uniformed Protective Services is equivalent to three A Levels and provides a comprehensive foundation for a career in the protective services. It also provides learners transferrable knowledge and skills, including the ability to learn independently, research actively, methodically, and to complete presentations and be an active member of a group.

This qualification focuses on the requirements required for a variety of roles in the UPS, such as the police service, the fire and rescue service, the armed services, and the prison service.

The content of this qualification has been developed in consultation with academics and employers from the UPS sector so that the content is appropriate, consistent, and aligned with current practice. The course also supports progression to higher education, where students can study a related degree (e.g. Criminology, Social Work, or Policing). As a result, learners are well-prepared for direct either entry into employment or an application to Higher Education at the end of this 2-year programme.

Topics may include:

  • Citizenship and diversity
  • Behaviour and discipline
  • Global affairs, the media, and the Uniformed Protective Services
  • Physical preparation, health, and wellbeing
  • Teamwork, leadership, and communication
  • Government and the Protective Services
  • Planning for and responding to emergency incidents.

Assesment Methods

This course is assessed using a combination of internal assessments (which are set and marked by lecturers), external assessment set by Pearson, and external exams.

Progression Options

This qualification prepares learners for employment in (but is not limited to) the police service, the fire and rescue service, the armed services, and the prison service. The course also supports progression to higher education, meeting entry requirements for degrees such as BA (Hons) in Criminology, BA (Hons) in Public Services, and BA (Hons) in Policing.

Entry Requirements

You will need five GCSEs grades ranging from 9 to 4, including English. This can include an appropriate BTEC Level 2 qualification.

Frequently Asked Questions

We aim to offer a careers service that is accessible to everyone. We will seek to equip all our students with the skills and knowledge that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively, and independently in life and work. All students have the opportunity to meet with a Careers Advisor for 1:1 career support.