About this qualification 

This is a regulated qualification. The regulated number for this qualification is 601/2456/8.  

For the purposes of this qualification, ‘uniformed services’ is defined as Army, Navy, RAF, Police, Fire and Prison Service. This definition includes any sub-specialisms of these professions but is not intended to provide training in these sub-specialisms, as it is expected that such training will be given to learners upon entering their chosen profession. Although the qualification can be used as introductory preparation for entry to the 6 professions listed above, centres are under no obligation to offer all 6, and the decision as to the range of choices to be offered is to be left to the discretion of centres with regard to available resources and facilities.  

This qualification may be suitable for use within a Study Programme. 

Who is it suitable for? 

This qualification is designed for adult learners interested in a career in the uniformed services, and for those between 14 and 16 years old as part of an initial vocational training programme to develop their knowledge so they can progress to further learning in a range of sectors. 

Centres are responsible for ensuring that this qualification is appropriate for the age and ability of learners. They need to make sure that learners can fulfil the requirements of the learning outcomes and comply with the relevant literacy, numeracy and health and safety aspects of this qualification.  

Learners registered on this qualification shouldn’t undertake another qualification at the same level with the same or a similar title, as duplication of learning may affect funding eligibility. 

What are the entry requirements? 

There are no specific recommended prior learning requirements for this qualification. However, learners may find it helpful if they’ve already achieved a Level 1 qualification.  

How is this qualification structured? 

To be awarded the Level 2 Diploma for Entry to the Uniformed Services, learners are required to successfully achieve a minimum of 43 credits: 

• 35 credits from the mandatory units in Group A 
• a minimum of 8 credits (2 units) from the optional units in Group B. 

How is it assessed? 

Each learner must create a portfolio of evidence generated from appropriate assessment tasks which demonstrates achievement of all the learning outcomes associated with each unit. On completion of each unit, learners must declare that the work produced is their own and the Assessor must countersign this. The work is then internally assessed and externally quality assured. 

How many credits are required to complete it? 

43 credits are required to complete the qualification. 

How long will it take to complete this qualification? 

This qualification has 370 Guided Learning Hours (GLH) and a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 430 hours. 

Is employment or completion of work/industry placement required for this qualification? 

These are not required for this qualification. 

What related qualifications can you progress to? 

Learners who achieve this qualification could progress to:  

• NCFE Level 3 Introductory Certificate for Entry to the Uniformed Services (601/8790/6) 
• NCFE Level 3 Certificate for Entry to the Uniformed Services (601/8791/8) 
• NCFE Level 3 Diploma for Entry to the Uniformed Services (540) (601/8792/x) 
• NCFE Level 3 Diploma for Entry to the Uniformed Services (720) (601/8793/1).

Career opportunities 

This qualification is designed for learners interested in a career in the uniformed services. 

Funding for our qualifications 

This qualification may be eligible for funding. For further guidance on funding, please contact your local funding provider or check our funding page. 

Which type of job roles can you apply for on completion? 

Job roles in the ‘uniformed services’ which is defined as Army, Navy, RAF, Police, Fire and Prison Services. 

Useful links  

Mandatory policies and fees | NCFE