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Preparation for Public Services Diploma Level 2

  • Graig Campus
1 Year

A career in public services can be wide and varied but all services aim to work with the community and can include roles such as policing, justice and emergency call handling.

This course is designed to inspire and enthuse you to consider a career in the public services sector.

Throughout the year you will have the opportunity to gain a broader knowledge and understanding of the public services industry, which will underpin and enhance your skills as an aspiring public service worker. It aims to prepare you for further study opportunities and provides a stepping-stone to level three public services, level three outdoor adventure or level three sport.  

The course aims to link education to the world of work in engaging, relevant and practical ways, alongside developing essential skills such as literacy, numeracy and digital literacy. There are many opportunities to meet with Public Services personnel from a variety of backgrounds including the Police, Army, Royal Marines, RAF and Fire and Rescue Service. You will also have the opportunity to attend an annual public services competition where you compete with other public services learners from across the UK.

You are encouraged to engage in our sports academies that aim to develop athletes and players in a range of sports.

Course details

Study modes:
  • Full time
Course length:
1 Year

What you will learn

Areas of study include health and fitness, adventurous activities, volunteering and employability. You will also develop transferable interpersonal skills such as working with others, problem solving, independent study and learning/thinking skills. Students will also develop skills in organisation, personal progression planning and research at an appropriate level.

You will be invited to engage in projects with local community groups and partners of the college to gain an insight into employability opportunities within the sector. The opportunity to run and lead events will develop confidence and communication skills.

  • Public Service Skills and Support for the Community
  • Volunteering in the public services 
  • Sport and Recreation in the public services 
  • Health and Fitness for entry into Uniformed Public Services
  • Crime and its Effects on Society
  • Employment in the Uniformed Public Services
  • Community and Cultural Awareness
  • Expedition & Land Navigation Skills

The course also includes skill development sessions and a tutorial programme.

This course aims to develop underpinning knowledge, skills and understanding in readiness to progress onto a breadth of pathways at the college. Progress opportunities may include study at a further level or apprenticeships pathways.

Following a level three qualification if the student wishes to progress their study following this course, learners can progress to higher education in a range of disciplines, for example:

  • BA (Hons) in Criminology
  • BSc (Hons) in Fire and Rescue
  • BA (Hons) in Social Work
  • BA (Hons) in Sociology
  • BA (Hons) in Public Services
  • BA (Hons) in Policing
  • LLB (Hons) in Law.

This qualification is primarily designed to support progression to employment following further study at university. However, it also supports learners progressing directly to employment. It will give learners the knowledge and understanding required to apply for a range of entry-level roles within the Uniformed Protective Services sector, or for employment as an apprentice within the sector, where learners will complete additional training and qualifications to gain the skills and knowledge required to progress in their chosen profession.

Employment

Progression routes depend on achievements at L2. It is an expectation that learners complete with a full merit profile or higher and demonstrate progress in literacy, numeracy and digital literacy. Progress is subject to interview.

All units are assessed in the form of coursework and formal observations during the practical elements. Each unit on average will consist of two written assessments and with at least one form of practical assessment.

Four GCSEs grades at A* - D with two Cs, one being either English/Welsh (first language) or maths. Or successful completion of a level one vocational qualification in a relevant subject at merit or above.

Progressions from level one sports courses are also accepted. 

All students are assessed on an individual basis and will be offered the opportunity to attend an interview. 

English and maths are an integral part of the course. Students who do not yet have the necessary grades at C or above will have additional teaching and support to study for either GCSE, Agored qualifications or Essential Skills depending on prior GCSE grades.

All learners are required to pay an administration fee of £25 prior to enrolment.

There will be a payment required for trips and Outdoor activities . Letters will be issued to parents advising them of these costs.

Owing to the fitness requirements on the course, learners will be required to have a sports kit and also clothing and footwear suitable for wearing on expeditions.