Level 3 Diploma in Uniformed Public Services

*IMPORTANT INFORMATION FROM EKC CANTERBURY COLLEGE FOR SEPTEMBER 2027 APPLICATIONS*

Applications Open - Monday 2nd November 2026

Applications Close - Open all year

How to Apply – Please apply through KentChoices and use your KentChoices login which your school should provide

PLEASE NOTE - Popular courses can fill up quickly so apply early to avoid disappointment

If you have any queries regarding the courses, please contact EKC Canterbury College

You can make up to 5 applications to Colleges within the EKC Group, that is:

• EKC Ashford College
• EKC Broadstairs College*
• EKC Canterbury College*
• EKC Dover College
• EKC Folkestone College*
• EKC Sheppey College

*Junior Colleges exist in these locations.

Please only add one course or T Level per application, except for A Levels at EKC Canterbury College, where up to 4 A Level courses can be added per application. At your interview, you and the tutors can discuss the best level and courses in order for you to progress.

Take the next step towards a career where you can lead, protect and make real decisions under pressure. If you’re serious about joining the police, fire service, armed forces or another uniformed role, this two-year course will push you physically, mentally and professionally to ensure you have the skills needed to succeed. Build on your existing skills through more advanced training, realistic scenarios and leadership challenges. You’ll take on greater responsibility, develop your decision-making and prepare for the expectations of the sector. Public services demand commitment, resilience and leadership. This two-year course is designed to help you build the stamina, skills and focus needed to move confidently towards a career where you make a difference every day.

Push yourself further as you develop the advanced skills needed to succeed in the uniformed public services. This course is a great progression from the Level 2 Public Services course, placing a stronger focus on leadership, independence and real-world application. Take on leadership roles within team activities and challenges, learning how to manage others, make decisions under pressure and take responsibility in demanding situations. You’ll be expected to step up, lead from the front and support your team to succeed. Head outdoors for expedition work and navigation exercises, developing your ability to plan, adapt and operate in challenging environments. You will also take part in structured drill and discipline training, refining your focus, teamwork and professionalism. Explore the investigative side of public services as you delve into forensic techniques, gaining an insight into how evidence is collected and analysed to support real-world investigations. Develop your fitness to a higher standard with regular, intensive training sessions, preparing you for the physical expectations of many public service careers. You’ll also deepen your understanding of how services operate, exploring roles, responsibilities and the wider impact of the sector. You will develop skills in: • Advanced teamwork and leadership • Land navigation and expedition planning • Drill, discipline and professional standards • Sport, fitness and physical development • Understanding public service operations • Decision-making and working under pressure Throughout the course, you’ll build confidence, resilience and independence, preparing you for higher education, apprenticeships or direct pathways into the public services.

You will be assessed through multiple projects that will build your skills. You will complete group projects, presentations and written assignments, whilst also showcasing the skills you’ve learnt within practical activities. Your performance will also be observed and evaluated during practical tasks and exercises. This approach allows you to demonstrate both your knowledge and your ability to apply it in realistic scenarios, helping you prepare for the demands of the public services.

To study this course you should have: At least six GCSEs and an average grade of 5, including English and Maths at grade 4 or above. OR A Level 2 in my chosen subject and GCSE English and Maths at Grade 4 or above.

By the end of your course, you’ll be ready to take your next step into higher education or the uniformed public service sector. This course can open the door to a wide range of career paths, including: • Police • Fire and rescue services • Armed forces • Prison services • Border force • Emergency services You can also progress onto higher education, including university courses related to public services, criminology or leadership. -------------------------------------------- “I’m not exactly sure when I decided I wanted to be a Royal Marines Officer, but I think that conversations with staff helped me to see what I wanted to do. I enjoy making presentations and presenting in class. It’s good practice. I want to get comfortable talking to a large group of people because that is something I would do as a Royal Marine Officer.” - Joe, Level 3 Uniformed Public Services students talking on his future plans.