Entry requirements
A keen interest in Public Service is desirable. Students applying must have at least three GCSEs at grade 3, or a Merit or Distinction at BTEC Level 1. A previous qualification in Uniformed Public Service is not required for this course.Â
Course Overview
For students looking to study uniformed public services in Southampton and the New Forest, our Uniformed Public Service Futures Level 2 course covers a range of techniques and skills for public service. Â
Our course is designed to provide informed and prepared potential recruits for the sector. Enabling you to apply for a role within the sector or provide a basis for further study and progression towards the entry qualification of a specific service. Â
Through our Uniformed Public Service course, you will have opportunities to acquire a number of practical and technical skills, explore and engage in volunteering, learn how to prepare for interviews, increase your physical fitness and learn about the importance of health and hygiene for public service roles. Â
What will I learn?
Our Uniformed Public Service courses are based on the Nacro Education Get Set! framework, enabling you to gain critical and transferable skills that you need to progress onto your next step and help build your CV.
As part of this course, you will learn a wide range of skills to give you a strong foundation for your future career, through both practical and theoretical lessons. In theory lessons, you will solve puzzles, practice assignment style questions, and work with other students to learn new content using a variety of traditional delivery methods with teacher questioning, games and other problem-solving tasks.Â
You will be taught by experienced teachers who have experience in the sector. In addition, you will have the opportunity to learn maths and English as part of this course.Â
Work Experience
As part of the Nacro Education Get Set! framework, we encourage you to engage in enrichment activities to support your learning. Â
You will be required to complete 35 hours of work experience during the college year. This can be undertaken throughout the year or during the two work experience weeks, one in February before the half-term break and the other the week before the Easter holiday.Â
You will be supported throughout to enable you to take part in relevant work experience within the sector, which may not necessarily mean practical work experience in public services, but we offer a range of opportunities for you to gain the practical experience.Â
In addition, you will also be taught by industry professionals throughout the year and have the opportunity to go on outdoor excursions – one land-based, and one water-based. Led by industry professionals to help you gain additional experience in the sector. Â
Modules
Modules for the Uniformed Public Services Futures Level 2 course include:Â Â
Mandatory modules Â
- Investigate employment in the uniformed servicesÂ
- Physical fitness for the uniformed servicesÂ
- Develop teamwork and problem-solving skillsÂ
- Health and safety in the uniformed servicesÂ
- Health and hygiene in the uniformed servicesÂ
- Follow uniform service routineÂ
- Exploring equality and diversity for the uniformed servicesÂ
You will also be able to choose modules from the followingÂ
Optional modules
- Carry out map reading and navigationÂ
- Undertake adventurous activitiesÂ
- Participate in competitive sportsÂ
- Explore the use of telecommunication in the uniformed servicesÂ
- Explore volunteering and volunteering opportunitiesÂ
Assessment
At Totton College, we use a variety of assessment methods to ensure you achieve the Uniformed Public Services Futures Level 2 qualification.
Modules are assessed in the form of a portfolio of work; this could include observations on practical tasks or written assessments. You will be supported with all your work and given feedback and an opportunity to rework it before the external assessment takes place. Your teacher will go through all this when you sign up for the course.Â
Assessments will take place throughout the year, between three to four assessments per module. These will range from written, practical, professional discussions, presentation, peer lead activities and observations. Â
Career and Progression
After successfully passing this course, you will have the core knowledge to progress to a higher-level qualification and to move forward towards your chosen career.
On successful completion of this course, you will achieve the Level 2 NCFE Cambridge Diploma in Uniformed Public Services. After completing this course, students can progress to the level three Uniformed Public Services in the next college year. Â
You may also wish to discuss career options with the college careers advisor prior to completion of the course to explore apprenticeships or entry-level employment. Â
During my course, I’ve gained a good understanding of the history and structure of Uniformed Public Services, as well as the valuable skills they provide and the impact they have on the public. I have enjoyed the opportunities this course offers, such as navigation and self-defence training. One of my proudest achievements at Totton College has been gaining the confidence to deliver presentations in class, something I struggled with when I first started. My advice to new students joining Totton College is to ask plenty of questions about what you’re learning, as it will help you prepare for the assignments you will be working on later. After completing my course, I plan to join the Royal Air Force.
Funding and bursaries
Students if you’re aged over 19 you may be eligible for free tuition depending on the course you want to study, your existing qualifications and your financial circumstances. For more information email info@totton.ac.uk or call 023 8087 4874.
Advanced Learner Loans are available for students who are aged 19 or over. Repayments do not begin until the course is completed and you are earning £25,000 or over. Eligible learners will be enrolling on a level 3 or above course and are a UK or EU national. For further information, visit gov.uk/advanced-learner-loan.