Protective Services (=2 A Level)
BTEC Level 3 Protective Services Diploma is an engaging vocational course for students who are interested in the work of the emergency services, armed forces and other uniformed protective service organisations. Equivalent to two A-levels, the course offers an in-depth exploration of the sector while helping you develop valuable professional and personal skills.
You'll investigate the roles and responsibilities of protective service organisations, take part in practical activities and develop skills in leadership, teamwork and decision-making. You will develop many work-related skills, including leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, communication, planning and decision making. There is a focus on government and law.
- Qualification
- BTEC
- Exam Board
- Pearson
- Duration
- 2 years
Why study Protective Services (=2 A Level) at St Brendan’s?
Protective Services is ideal for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of the organisations responsible for keeping people safe and supporting communities. The Diploma provides greater depth and breadth than the Extended Certificate, making it an excellent option for students considering progression into protective service professions or related university courses.
Entry requirements
- 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above
- Including English Language or English Literature GCSE grade 4
- A GCSE in a humanities based subject is preferred
- Maths GCSE at grade 3 or above
What else do I need to know?
5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above
Including English Language or English Literature GCSE grade 4
A GCSE in a humanities based subject is preferred
Maths GCSE at grade 3 or above
Unit 2 – Behaviour and discipline in the Uniformed Protective Services
Unit 4 – Physical preparation, health and wellbeing
Unit 1 – Citizenship and diversity
Unit 5 – Teamwork, Leadership and communication in the Uniformed Protective Services
Unit 6 – Government and the protective services
(Units in bold are mandatory units and are unable to be changed)
Unit 10 – Skills for outdoor activities
Unit 19 – Professional development in the UPS
Unit 11 – Expedition skills
Unit 3 – Global affairs, the media and the UPS
Unit 15 – Police powers and law
Unit 7- Planning and responding to emergency incidents
Unit 18- Criminal Investigation Procedures and Practice
Unit 9- Sociological Perspectives
(Units above are optional units and are subject to change based on teaching expertise and experience, 4 of the above units will be taught across the 2 years)
The course is delivered through a variety of teaching and learning methods, including:
Classroom lessons
Presentations
Scenario-based role play
Group projects
Practical activities
Guest speakers
Independent research
Residential experiences
Off-site visits
Students are encouraged to follow current national and international news to develop their understanding of contemporary issues affecting protective services and public safety.
Assessment is a mix of external examinations and internal coursework. Each internally assessed unit is made up of a variety of assessments methods, such as written assignments, presentations, reports, interviews or practical demonstrations. This, alongside the external exams contribute to a portfolio of evidence which will form a final overall grade which has A-level equivalent tariffs.
All students will be charged for printing during the course. Contribution to the cost of outdoor activities and trips (including residential) is expected to be approximately £150 over the 2 year course. Financial assistance may be available if required.
As this qualification is equivalent to two A-levels, it is normally studied alongside one additional qualification as part of your study programme.
This qualification supports progression to a wide range of university courses and career pathways, including:
Criminology
Policing Studies
Paramedic Science
Nursing
Forensic Science
Psychology
Sociology
Law
Politics
Rescue and Emergency Management
Outdoor Adventure and Leadership Management
Coastal Safety Management
Students may also progress to apprenticeships and careers in:
Police Services
Armed Forces
Fire and Rescue Services
Emergency Care Services
Security Services
Youth Offending Teams
Former students have progressed into careers with the Army, RAF, Police, Paramedic Services and Fire & Rescue Services.
The course includes a range of enrichment opportunities, including:
Residential outdoor activity experiences
Team-building events
Guest speakers from protective services
Industry-related visits
Careers workshops
Wider college enrichment activities
These opportunities help build confidence, leadership skills and practical experience while strengthening university and a professional applications.
Progression opportunities
Related courses
Protective Services (=1 A Level)
BTECBTEC Level 3 Protective Services is an exciting vocational course for students who are interested in the work of the emergency services, arm…
Health and Social Care (=2 A Level)
AAQOCR Level 3 Technical Diploma in Health & Social Care is a broad and engaging course that explores the diverse and complex nature of the…
Health and Social Care (=1 A Level)
AAQThe OCR Level 3 AAQ Health & Social Care Extended Certificate is designed for students who are interested in understanding health, wellb…
