The Isle of Wight College has standard entry requirements for full-time college courses, depending on the level of the course to be studied.
There may be additional entry requirements for a small number of specialist courses. If this course is one of these specialist courses, additional entry requirements will be stated below.
The College welcomes applications from mature students who do not satisfy the above entry requirements provided they can demonstrate, by virtue of other studies and/or experience that they are capable of coping with and benefiting from the course.
A career in the Uniformed/Public Services is very satisfying for those who enjoy working with people. This one year course will provide a realistic introduction to work in any of the Uniformed Services including Fire, Police, Ambulance, Prison, Customs and Excise, Armed Forces and Coast Guard. You will find the course stimulating and varied as it combines classroom-based study with outdoor activity and group work. The different course units are aimed at developing the skills and qualities necessary to handle demanding but very rewarding jobs.
The course is made up of 9 units – seven mandatory units which everyone takes and two specialist units. The specialist units enable you to study particular areas in depth.
All students take 7 mandatory units:
And 2 specialist units:
Opportunities will be provided throughout the course to improve Maths, English, Problem Solving, Communication and Leadership Skills and to develop competence in the use of appropriate computer software. A residential period and a range of outdoor activities are essential elements.
Each unit of study is assessed by unit assignments which test knowledge, skills and understanding.
You will study English and Maths GCSE/Functional Skills which are essential for employment in any job sector and for progression.
You will also undertake The Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme (Bronze or Silver) alongside the main course, the following sections will be covered:
Your learning, supported by an experienced team, will consist of a balanced programme of lectures and practical “hands on” activities. You will undertake work-based assignments, research projects and case-studies based on real events. Some course work will involve observation of the Public Services at work and some will take place in both the local community and the countryside. Representatives from various Public Service organisations will make valuable contributions throughout the course.
An ability to work in the real world is essential. Employers want staff with qualifications and experience. Therefore the course sets out to offer a variety of work experience opportunities, these include:
This course will prepare you for entry into the Armed Forces as well as the Prison, Fire, Police and Ambulance services. Learners who achieve an appropriate grade on the NCFE Diploma for Entry to Uniformed Services : Level 2 can progress onto Public Services Level 3 course.
It is important for you to understand that public services qualifications require a high degree of personal commitment and self-discipline. Whatever you hope to gain from your time with us in terms of career development, personal development, social life and sports activities, the one objective that we all have within the public service team is a desire for you to succeed.
There is a materials cost associated with the course, this varies from year to year depending on activities and visits to outside agencies, please enquire for further details.