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This study programme is designed for 16 to 19 year olds (aged 19 to 24 for students with an Education, Health and Care Plan).

All courses take place on our Sixth Form Campus, therefore any applicants aged 25+ or over who do not have an Education, Health and Care Plan may be required to complete a DBS check as part of the conditional offer to West Suffolk College. The cost to the applicant for a DBS is £30.00 and the DBS check can be completed through the college.

Please visit our Adult EducationDegrees and Employer section for alternative courses.

About the course

This is a vocational course aiming to introduce learners to the key areas relating to the Police.  The course objective is to provide learners with an understanding of the police service and give them the opportunity to investigate skills required to work within the sector.  Students will have the opportunity to understand the personal commitment and fitness requirements needed to be employed in policing through week fitness training sessions.  They will also understand the external organisations that impact on the and influence the work of the police service.    The course fee covers these additionality along with uniform, day trips and travel costs linked to residentials and guest speakers. 

Entry requirements

Entry is via interview and achievement of five GCSE's at grade 9-4 including mathematics and English or a Level 2 Diploma (5 GCSE equivalent) achieved at Merit.  Applicants will need to be motivated and manage their own time, they will need to have a mature and responsible outlook as they will be required to work with a high degree of independence for much of the course.

Qualifications

The college offers a wide range of Level 3 Diplomas.  We will work with all learners in their first six weeks at college to place them on to the most appropriate course programme which meets their individual needs and best ensures their success.  Learners will work towards a NCFE Level 3 Diploma in Policing in the first year of the course and a NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Policing.  After completion of the two year course learners will have the opportunity to apply for higher level studies at university. 

What you'll learn (core modules)

The course is run by a team of highly qualified staff with a variety of public services experience. Learners are expected to be in College for three days a week, between 09.15 - 16.30 hrs each day.  The course will require additional study time at home for between 5-10 hours a week. 

 

The public service course is designed for those wishing to pursue a career in Policing.

 

The course is full-time and is completed over two years.  The course consists of a number of units including:

 

  • Preparing for a career in the police service
  • Develop leadership skills
  • Equality, diversity and inclusion
  • Preparation for higher education
  • Develops aspects of physical fitness for entry to the police service
  • Mental and physical wellbeing in the police
  • Understanding management and personal protection
  • Volunteering in the police service
  • Understanding mental health
  • Safeguarding and the Prevent Duty

 

Any student aged 16-19 who does not hold a GCSE grade 9-4 or equivalent qualification in maths and English will need to continue to study these subjects in each academic year.

Benefits, skills and character strengths

Students will develop are variety of skills including communication, independent learning and problem solving, teamwork, fitness, along with the college character strengths which are a focus of the classroom teaching sessions.  Student will also have an appreciation for appropriate behaviour and interpersonal skills.  Students will also be required to take part in a minimum of 40 hrs volunteer work to help develop skills, working with the local community. 

 

How will I be assessed?

Work is all internally assessed by a variety of methods, including practical and physical tasks, written assessments and reports, verbal presentations, and self-evaluation.  Each unit has 3-4 assessments and work is submitted via Microsoft Teams. 

Where is the course delivered? (facilities/classrooms)

The course is mainly classroom based, with at least one mandatory fitness session per week.

Where will the course take me?

Learners may apply for employment in policing, alternatively they may wish to apply to higher education to complete a HNC/D or degree course.

Will I need any materials or equipment?

Learners will be required to have sports kit, walking boot and outdoor clothing. The course fee will cover a basic uniform  that must be worn whilst at college.

How much will it cost?

This study programme is fully funded for 16 to 19-year-olds.

 

I'm interested. What should I do now?

Please make an application and we will be in touch to arrange a time for you to come to college to meet the team and discuss your application further. 

Days & times

Starting September 2023


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If there is anything more you would like to know about this course, please message us here.

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