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Overview

IMPORTANT
Applications are now open for academic year 2026/2027, but our full-time courses are still being finalised. If your chosen course changes, we'll contact you to offer a suitable alternative that matches your goals. For more information, call our Enquiries Team on 0808 100 3626.

This course is designed for individuals wishing to pursue a career in public services and will provide you with a broad range of skills required if you wish to pursue a career in the Police, Army, Navy, Royal Marines, Ambulance Service or Fire and Rescue Services.

This qualification will also develop transferable workplace skills, such as good communication and the ability to work in a team, which employers have identified as essential for gaining employment in the sector.

It is aimed at learners who have chosen to focus their learning and career development within the Uniformed Protective Services sector and who are looking for an engaging and stimulating qualification which will prepare them for successful performance in working life and progression by developing a range of essential skills, techniques and attitudes.

The topics you will cover include employment in the uniformed services, physical fitness, team work and problem solving, health, safety and hygiene, map reading and navigation.

The course also includes a specialist unit focusing on adventurous activities.


What will I study?

  • Public service skills and support for the community
  • Employment in the uniformed protective services
  • Health, fitness for entry into the uniformed protective services
  • Activities and team work for uniformed protective services
  • Attending emergency incidents in the uniformed protective services.
  • Entry requirements

    This course is only available to 16-18 year olds.

    • GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 3-9

    OR

    If you are not studying a traditional GCSE programme, we accept alternative qualifications like Functional Skills and vocational courses. If you are not planning on sitting GCSE exams, we can also support you with completing an English Language and Maths assessment. Please contact our admissions team for further details:

    • 01623 413639
    • This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
  • Progression
  • Careers
  • Qualifications gained
    • BTEC Certificate in Preparation for Public Services
    • EDEXCEL
  • Additional costs
    • To align with standard industry practice, purchasing a uniform is a mandatory part of this course. 

    At West Notts College, our students benefit from excellent facilities and equipment across all campuses. However, some courses require students to purchase specific tools, equipment, or specialist clothing to fully participate in practical learning.

    Visit our kit lists page to see what clothing and equipment you’ll need, and start preparing for your studies in September.

    Visit the kit lists page

  • Studying Uniformed Protective Services at WNC

    Discover what it is really like to study with us. Explore the full range of courses available, hear from our students, see the facilities you will train in, and discover the employer partners you could work with.

    You can also browse galleries and get a real feel for college life before you apply.

    Visit the subject area page

Disclaimer

Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information on the website is correct, some details may be subject to change. West Nottinghamshire College reserves the right to make amendments to the courses, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course we will refund your fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due.

Why choose us?

Excellent student support services

We’ve got a great student support network offering advice and guidance on careers and future employment, finance, health and welfare, additional learning support and much more.

Getting here couldn’t be easier!

Whether you travel by bus, train or on foot there are many different transport options available. You can also unleash your freedom with the West Notts College Travel Scheme which provides a flexible and great value bus travel service.

Campuses across Mansfield and Ashfield

We have eight campuses each boasting a number of state-of-the-art facilities.

Strong industry links

We’re always investing in college facilities to make sure you have access to the most up-to-date, industry-standard equipment. Our strong links with employers means you can secure work placements as part of your wider learning – providing you with vital industry experience and employability skills, getting you ready for the world of work.

Tutors who really know their industry

Most have worked in the industry they're teaching, so you'll learn the skills employers are looking for. They'll support and encourage you to achieve the best results possible.

LGBTQ+ celebration

We proudly celebrate LGBTQ+ diversity, including Pride. Our college is a supportive community that welcomes and embraces individuals of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

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