BTEC First Extended Certificate in Public Services

This course will prepare you for a career in protective services, providing you with the skills needed within the emergency services and security services. During your time with us, you will investigate these services, improve your employability and prepare you for the next step in your career. Topics covered include:

Compulsory modules:

• The role and work of public services*
• Working skills in the public services sector
• Citizenship, society and the public services*
• Crime and its effects on society and individuals
  

Optional Modules selected from:

• Employment in the public services
• Public services and community protection
• Health, fitness and lifestyle for the public services
• Promotion of public services provision
• Community and cultural awareness
• Adventurous activities in the public services
• Sport and recreation in the public services
• Land navigation by map and compass
• Volunteering for the public services
• Multi-day expedition experience
• Health and safety in the public services workplace
• Employability skills in the public services
• Preparing to respond to emergency incidents
• Security procedures in the public services
• Carrying out a project in public services
• Law and its impact on the individual

*These modules are externally assessed via an examination.

• You will need 4 GCSE's at Grade 3 or above. One of the 4 GCSE's to be Maths or English at Grade 3 (or Functional Skill level 1) to study at this level.
• If you have a beginner/Introductory qualification in the subject you want to study  and a maths or English GCSE at Grade 3 (or Functional Skill level 1) you can study at this level.
• Entry requirements for Level 2 courses in some sectors may be more specific. If you're unsure whether you meet these requirements, don't worry — we can help you find a suitable course that aligns with your skills and experience.

If English is not your first language, you may need an assessment before enrolling on this course. To discuss further, please contact the ESOL department on 0151 551 7144.

This course opens pathways to careers in the public services, as well as further study in Level 3 Public and Uniformed Services courses.

You could progress to these Wirral Met courses:

• PS306 - BTEC level 3 Protective services National Foundation Diploma

You will typically be in college for a minimum of 3 days per week. You will receive your individual timetable at the start of your course.

To learn effectively on your course, you may require additional equipment, and participate in activities, such as trips, which will incur additional costs.

You may be eligible for financial support with these costs. For more information, visit https://www.wmc.ac.uk/student-support/financial-support

Each candidate is required to sit two external online exams as well as create a portfolio of evidence which demonstrates achievement of 100% the learning outcomes and assessment criteria associated with each unit.

The main pieces of evidence for the portfolio could include, where relevant:

• Candidate's proof of work
• Assessor observation - completed observational check-lists and related action plans
• Witness testimony
• Practical observations
• Worksheets
• Assignments/projects/reports
• Record of professional discussion
• Record of oral and written questioning
• Candidate and peer reports
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

The two units assessed via an externally set, online exam are:

• The role and work of public services
• Citizenship, society and the public services