UNIFORMED PROTECTIVE SERVICES

Serve your community, protect the public, and become a part of something greater than yourself with our UPS courses.

Prepare for a career that makes a difference

Our courses are designed to prepare you for exciting and rewarding careers in the armed forces, emergency services, and wider public protection sector, both in the UK and overseas. You’ll develop the discipline, resilience, and leadership qualities that are essential for success in these highly fulfilling professions.

Through a balance of theory, practical activity, and teamwork-based challenges, you’ll gain an in-depth understanding of what it takes to work in front-line and support roles within the uniformed services.

WHY CHOOSE UNIFORMED PROTECTIVE SERVICES?

From the moment you join, you’ll take part in hands-on learning that reflects real-life scenarios.  You’ll get the opportunity to:

  • Explore topics such as citizenship, law and the legal system, leadership, and land navigation
  • Develop teamwork and communication skills
  • Test your leadership and decision-making abilities
  • Nurture your problem-solving abilities in high-pressure situations
  • Enhance your physical and mental resilience
  • Learn about the benefits of public service and community engagement.

Join the 999 Academy

As part of your studies, you’ll have the opportunity to join UCS College Group’s highly regarded 999 Academy, a unique initiative run in collaboration with local emergency services, including the police, fire and rescue, ambulance, and coastguard. This programme allows you to experience first-hand the teamwork, discipline, and communication required in the world of public service.

You’ll take part in:

  • Live training exercises alongside emergency service professionals
  • Specialist department visits to understand how each service operates
  • Community engagement and outreach activities to support local initiatives
  • Real-world simulations that test your ability to stay calm, organised, and focused.

A qualification in Uniformed Protective Services opens the door to a wide range of career routes, both nationally and internationally. Graduates go on to roles in the armed forces, police, fire and rescue, ambulance services, prison and probation services, as well as other key public sector organisations.

If you’re dedicated to serving your community, look no further…

What are you waiting for? Visit Strode College on one of our open days and start your journey towards a rewarding career serving your community and your country!

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Helpful information

Financial Support

We understand that managing money while studying can feel overwhelming, especially right now. That’s why we offer a wide range of financial support to help you succeed, whatever your circumstances.

Wellbeing

Everyone’s journey is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health. We get that College can sometimes be challenging. That’s why we offer a wide range of support services that you can access throughout your time with us.

Term Dates

Planning ahead? Our academic calendar includes key term dates, bank holidays,
scheduled breaks, and Somerset school holiday alignment, so you can stay informed and
organised throughout the year.

Join our Open Event

Come and see what makes Strode College unique. Meet tutors, explore our college, and find the right path for you.

📆 Tuesday 20 January 2026
🕕 6pm – 8pm
📍 Strode College

“My goal is to progress within the police force, and this course has given me the knowledge, skills, and confidence to take those next steps. It’s been such a rewarding experience, and I’m really proud of how far I’ve come.”

Hear from our students