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Full Time
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2 Years
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Boston
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September 2025
Entry to the Uniformed Services Extended Diploma Level 3
Add to ShortlistThe NCFE Entry to the Uniformed Services Extended Diploma Level 3 course is an exciting and dynamic two-year course designed to prepare students for careers in the Uniformed Public Services or progression to Higher Education. It offers a blend of classroom learning and practical outdoor activities, ensuring a well-rounded experience. The course develops transferable skills, such as teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and resilience, all of which are highly valued in both the workplace and higher education.
Boston College works in partnership with Lincolnshire Police, the RAF, the Royal Navy, the British Army, and other public service organisations, providing students with real-world insights and practical training. In the first year, students will complete the Entry to the Uniformed Services Diploma Level 3. Upon successful completion of the first year, you will progress to the Entry to the Uniformed Public Services National Extended Diploma Level 3 in the second year, further developing your skills and knowledge.
The course encourages key values, including curiosity, independence, resilience, and self-awareness, helping students build a strong foundation for a career in public service. With a combination of theory-based learning and hands-on experiences, this qualification supports progression into careers within the Armed Forces, emergency services, or security sectors, as well as Higher Education opportunities in related fields.
What will I do?
During the course, you will cover a variety of topics including:
Year 1:
- Prepare for a Career in a Chosen Uniformed Public Service
- Develop Aspects of Physical Fitness for Entry to the Uniformed Services
- Develop Leadership Skills
- Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
- Uniformed Services Hierarchy and Routine
- Mental and Physical Wellbeing
- Understand Conflict Management and Personal Protection
- Sports Coaching
- Understanding Discipline in the Uniformed Public Services
Year 2:
- Volunteering Oppportunties
- Telecommunications in the Uniformed Public Services
- Emergency Planning and Response in the Uniformed Public Services
- Skills for Land-based Outdoor and Adventurous Activities
- Outdoor and Adventurous Expeditions
- Crime Scene Investigation
- UK Legal Systems and Uniformed Public Services
- Security Procedures in the Uniformed Public Services
Please note that modules are subject to change.
During the year, you will undertake meaningful work experience to develop you interpersonal skills and enhance your employment prospects. You will also take part in visits and activities which may include:
- Presentations at the College by the RAF, Army, Navy, Police and Fire Service
- Personal development activities with the Army
You will also have the opportunity to complete the below qualifications:
- Earth Week – Tackling the Climate Emergency Level 3
- Emergency First Aid at Work Award Level 3
- Digital Skills Level 3
- Outdoor Skills Level 3
- Skills Preparation for Service Life
Entry Qualifications
To study the Entry to the Uniformed Services Extended Diploma Level 3, you will need 5 GCSEs including English or Maths, Functional Skills English and Maths Level 2.
Attendance
The Entry to the Uniformed Services Extended Diploma Level 3 will take you 1 year to complete. You will attend college for up to 5 days per week at our Rochford Campus in Boston or our Peter Paine Performance Centre in Boston, plus approximately 24 hours of independent study per week.
Fees
The Entry to the Uniformed Services Extended Diploma Level 3 is free, if you are under the age of 19 on 31 August of the year you start the course.
Aged 19+
For those aged 19+, this course will cost: £6602.
You may be eligible to study this course for FREE should you be eligible under one of the following criteria:
- Aged 19 or over, and earning less than £25,000
- Aged 19 or over, and currently unemployed and receiving JSA, ESA or Universal Credit
- Aged 19 or over and do not currently hold a Level 3 qualification
Alternatively, you may qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan to help with your College fees. If you progress to employment you won't have to pay anything back until you’re earning £25,000 per year. Your household income isn't taken into account and there's no credit check. Your eligibility depends on your course, nationality, and age. To find out more contact the College Information Line on 01205 313218.
Please note that all fees are subject to change.
How Will I Be Assessed
You will be assessed mainly by coursework, including observations and written assessments.
Where Could It Lead?
Successfully completing the Entry to the Uniformed Services Extended Diploma Level 3 opens doors to a wide range of opportunities in both Higher Education and employment. This qualification provides the essential skills, knowledge, and experience needed to pursue careers in the Armed Forces, Emergency Services, security, and other public service sectors. Additionally, it serves as a strong foundation for University Level study, leading to Degrees in Public Services, Criminology, Policing, or related fields, enhancing career prospects even further.
To explore University Level courses available at Boston College, visit our University Level page.
Additional costs
Additional costs will include purchase of uniform at approximately £60.
How to Apply.
To apply for a course, you will need to have an account with us!
Creating an account is easy, just click ‘Apply for this course’ below.
Find out about the amazing opportunities available at Boston College at one of our Open Events.
Potential Careers.
- Fire Service Officers (Watch Manager and Below)
- Prison Service Officers (Below Principal Officer)
- NCOs and Other Ranks
Search Careers.
What you could earn
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£55,140
potential
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£41,673
average
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£10,569
entry level
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