Protective Services

“There’s no greater challenge and there is no greater honour than to be in public serve.”

Condoleezza Rice

Course description

The uniformed protective service sector is diverse and encompasses uniformed public services such as the police service, the fire and rescue service, the armed service and the prison service. Most of these uniformed protective services are organised and financed by the government in order to benefit society.

The qualification focuses on the police service, fire and rescue service, armed service and the prison service. The content of this qualification has been developed in consultation with employers and professional bodies to ensure that it it appropriate for those interested in working in the sector.

In addition, higher education representatives have been involved to ensure that it fully supports entry to the relevant range of specialist degrees.

What will I study?

Unit 2: Behaviour and Discipline in the Uniformed Protective Services

In this unit, you will examine a range of theories that underpin behaviour and how they are applied in the uniformed protective services. You will explore how authority is used to benefit both the individual and society, based on key types of authority in the public sector, making connections between theory and practice. In completing the assessment for this unit, you can draw on your learning from across the programme.

Unit is externally assessed in the form of: –

  • Written examination set and marked by Pearson
  • Duration – 2 hours.
  • Total 80 marks.

Unit 5: Teamwork, Leadership and Communication in the Protective Services

In this unit, you will learn about leadership, investigating the different styles of leadership and how they are best used in the uniformed protective services. You will learn how to be an effective team member while developing leadership skills and will have the opportunity to apply these skills in different situations. You will gain an understanding of the different types of communication systems used by the uniformed protective services, and the importance of clear communication, together with learning how these systems have enabled the services to become more efficient.

Unit 11: Expedition Skills

In this unit, you will investigate past expeditions, exploring the history behind the most acclaimed and successful individuals and teams. You will also look at lesser-known expeditions that have changed the way in which modern expeditions are planned and undertaken. You will develop the skills needed to plan and undertake an expedition and will be given the opportunity to demonstrate these skills by planning, undertaking and reviewing your own expedition.

Unit 10: Skills for Outdoor Activities

Outdoor activities is a broad field that has numerous benefits, including physical, social and psychological benefits, for those who engage with it.

This unit gives you the opportunity to participate in outdoor activities. You will be able to develop skills in specific activities and review your performance against group and personal expectations. You will develop your understanding of the skills needed to participate in outdoor activities. You will focus on the concept of good practice in the outdoor sector, while recognising that it is essential to have a knowledge and understanding of the environment where the activities take place. You will study a selection of activities in depth, focusing on developing your practical skills and techniques, which are essential for safe, efficient and independent participation. This unit will allow you to develop your level of physical ability in the outdoors.

Enrichment

Learners will enjoy taking part in a variety of activities, both in school and outside of school. Learners will undertake an overnight expedition, orienteering at Dalby Forest and in school, and a visit to either Red Goat to indoor rock climb or Xscape to learn how to ski.

Assessment

  • Externally assessed examination 33%
  • Mandatory contend 67%

Progression

The qualification carries UCAS points and if taken alongside other qualifications as part of a two-year programme of learning, then it is recognised by higher education providers as contributing to meeting admission requirements for many courses. Learners progression, following the completion of the course include:

  • Policing
  • Criminology
  • Law
  • Crime Scene Investigation
  • Custodial Care
  • Armed Forces

Entry requirements

Entry onto Level 3 courses includes students achieving 4 x Grade 9-4 or equivalent at GCSE alongside a Grade 4 or above in English and/or Mathematics. Students with either English and/or Mathematics at Grade 3 or below will have individual meetings to determine the most suitable pathway within the Sixth Form.