Peterlee Campus
Course overview
The course aims to prepare learners for a career in the public services by developing a range of desirable qualities and skills including: fitness, confidence, communication and leadership.
The course provides learners with an opportunity to investigate career opportunities in the public services, alongside the knowledge and skills needed to gain recruitment into the Police, Fire Brigade, Prison Service and the Armed Forces.
Topics
The course covers:
• Fitness Testing & Training
• Personal Fitness Development
• Leadership
• Practical Sports
• Career Planning
• Outdoor Adventure
• Land Based Navigation
Job opportunities after this course
• Army Officer
• Coast Guard
• Fire and Rescue
• HM Prison Service
• Naval Rating
• Police Officer
• Royal Air Force
• Royal Marines
• Security
... and so much more!
Further study options after this course
After successfully completing this course, learners will have the opportunity to progress onto a Level 3 Diploma in Public Services.
Progression at all levels within this academic area require high levels of attendance, punctuality, and standards of behaviour in accordance with college student codes of conduct and policies, alongside a minimum end of year grade of a Merit.
Entry requirements
Three GCSEs at grade 3 or above, ideally including maths and English.
Our entry requirements are in place to support our students in achieving the qualifications they have chosen to study. In addition to the entry requirements, all students will be regularly assessed by East Durham College at an early stage in their study programme. This is to ensure that students are enrolled onto courses which suit their abilities – following assessment, there may be occasions when students are transferred to a relevant course at a higher or lower level in order to ensure they are enrolled on to the right course for them to achieve and progress.
Entry onto any course at EDC may have entry requirements in addition to exam results; this includes but is not limited to DBS checks, references, fitness to practice and at times physical requirements to be capable of achieving the practical elements of the course without assistance. Entry onto any course at East Durham College is subject to final approval from the Assistant Principal.
How is this course assessed?
The course is assessed through a combination of assignments, practical activities, research tasks and residential activity. Work is graded using a Pass, Merit, Distinction system.
When does the course start?
September 2025
Length of course
One year course, 12 hours per week.
This full time study programme courses may also be available to study on a part-time basis if you are aged 18 or over on 31st August. Please check with Student Services for more details.
Fees & Funding
Please read our Course Fees & Funding page.
How to apply
To apply online for this course, please click on the 'Apply' button at the top/bottom of this page.
Alternatively, if you need assistance with your application or you would like to apply over the phone or using a paper-based application form, please call Student Services on 0191 743 0149.
If you're not quite ready to apply for this course and would like some more information or to speak to a member of staff then please click on the 'Enquire' button at the top/bottom of this page.
