Full time EDEXCEL National Certificate in Public Services Level 3

EDEXCEL National Certificate in Public Services Level 3Duration
Two years full time

Attendance
You are expected to be available to attend college Monday to Friday 9am to 4.30pm.

Course Description
The National Diploma in Public Services provides guidance for entry and presents the opportunity to identify and develop the skills required for a successful career in the Public Services. This can be achieved either immediately upon completion for some occupations or after further development for others.

The qualification may also serve as entry to Higher Education. In addition to classroom based study the course includes outdoor activities including a week's residential visit, personal fitness training and visits to various Public Services Organisations. There are no exams on the course, with assignments being set for each unit.

This course will enable students to examine and prepare towards making an informed judgement of their suitability to a career within a Public Service organisation. It will also enable students to recognise and develop the skills for entry into a Public Service related field. The qualification would be of particular benefit to individuals who wish to enter and pursue a career in:

• The Police Service
• The Fire Service
• The Ambulance Service
• The Armed Forces
• Prison and Security Services
• HM Customs and Excise
• Community Service Organisations
• Emergency Service Related Organisations

Course Structure
The National Diploma in Public Services is a two year full-time course which is delivered at the Hub site of Doncaster College. It usually runs over four or five days, starting in September.

The course is made up of 12 units, 5 of which are compulsory, plus 7 specialist units.

Core Units:

• Government Policies and the public services
• Team Leadership
• Citizenship, contemporary society and the public services
• Team development
• Understanding Discipline

Specialist Units:

• International Perspectives
• Incidents (Fire Services)
• Command and Control
• Major Incidents
• Emergency Service Incidents
• Diversity and the public services
• Physical preparation and fitness
• Outdoor and adventure expeditions
• Skills for land based and adventure activities
• Crime and it effect on society
• Employment
• Criminal justice system and police powers
• Understanding behaviour

There is also an opportunity to study First Aid and the Community Sports Leader Award.

Students may also take part in competitive sports.

PE kit and walking boots are required, some outdoor clothing is provided. Learners will be expected to wear a â€-uniform†of polo shirt, walking trousers and waterproof jacket

Course Assessment
This course involves taking part in physically demanding activities such as Public Service Fitness Tests and map reading, walking and camping, which may take place in bad weather. Students should only apply if they are willing to cope with a certain amount of physical discomfort. Needs more

Course Entry Requirements

• 5 GCSE A-C
• For equivalent qualifications see the Entry Requirements Explained page
• All applicants must complete an initial assessment in Maths and English and attend an interview
• All applicants must successfully complete a one week Introduction to Public Services course held in August.

Course Costs
There are no course fees if you are under 19 years old on 31 August 2010. However, you may have to pay for textbooks, personal kits, uniforms, trips and personal stationery. You will be informed of these at your interview.

Approximately £150 is required for a residential visit plus other entry fee through the year, e g canoeing and climbing

Course Enrichment
Activities such as trips and visits will be arranged, which are beneficial to this course and your learning. These activities are optional and additional fees will be charged to you. Details will be provided at the time of interview.

Wednesday Afternoon Sport Fixtures

• Football (male and female)
• Basketball
• Netball
• Rugby
• Martial Arts
• Fitness and Exercise

Course Progression

• HND Criminology/Sociology
• Foundation Degree in Public Services

Course Career Prospects
Job opportunities include the Fire Service, Police, Army, RAF, Prison Service, Ambulance Service and Customs and Excise.

Useful career websites:

If you are unsure about your career progression please contact the Careers Team.