Public Services
Uniformed Public Services
BTEC National Diploma
This course, equivalent to three A Levels, provides an excellent introduction to a career in the uniformed services. Approved by leading public service organisations it combines specialist subjects such as major incidents and uniformed services with outdoor activities, expedition skills and fitness related units.
A variety of visits and guest speakers complement class-based activities. You will have the opportunity to gain additional qualifications such as the Community Sports Leaders Award, Emergency First Aid and a Health and Safety certificate.
Uniformed Public Services
BTEC First Diploma
If you are thinking of a career in the armed forces, emergency services or outdoor activity industry then this course, equivalent to four GCSEs (A-C grade), is for you. Find out what it takes to become a member of a uniformed service by studying communication, teamwork , physical fitness and practising physical and mental entry tests. You will also study the work of a variety of uniformed services. An outdoor activity residential is an important part of the course as are visits to the fire service, police, army and navy when possible.
“I have learned more than I ever imagined on the National Diploma course.
“I have always wanted to join the Police. The National Diploma Public Services course has shown me how to apply and all the training I should do to give myself the best possible chance of success with my application. The application process for the Police is very long and I have learned from the course how to prepare myself for the tests.
“I was surprised to find the course focuses on areas I did not imagine such as The Royal Signals and Coastguards and there is always something coming up to look forward to – a speaker or a visit or an activity. The course also includes role play and lots of contact and input from all the other services.
“I have really enjoyed the course which includes lots of adventure trips. Every year the Army visit BCOT and put public service students through their paces. This was both fun and exhausting.
“Tutors are friendly and supportive and students see them more as friends. In the second year of the course tutors find out about each student’s career aims and help them achieve their required grades.
“On completion of this course I am going to the University of Plymouth to study criminology with the long term aim of joining the Police.”
Key: entry requirements
Further Study 
GCSE Grades A-C
or other Level 2
GCSE Grades D
or other Level 1
GCSE Grades E 
and below
