HNC/D in Public Services

The HNC/D Public Services course is taught by experienced industry professionals and the aim of the course is to develop your theoretical and practical knowledge of the Public Services. This can lead to subsequent studies in higher education institutions or employment in the Public Services’ sector.

Discipline, motivation, determination, and the ability to work under pressure are all essential attributes for anyone looking for a successful career in the uniformed public services. During your studies, the content of this course will help you to focus on your future career goals. If you would like a career in the police, prison and probation services, fire service, armed forces to name but a few, this course will offer you knowledge and understanding of what these careers will entail.

You will also develop a firm understanding about major incidents, human psychology and sociology, diversity, criminology health and safety, your own personal efficiency and development in all situations where public services are utilised.

The course is made up of units at Level 4 (Year 1) and at Level 5 (Year 2), with credits awarded for each unit. These units are:

• Organisational Structures and Culture
• Equality, Diversity and Fair Treatment
• Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Public Services in Contemporary Society
• Responding to Emergencies
• Crime Reduction and Community Safety
• Outdoor Skills Development
• Psychology of Behaviour

As you progress through your HNC/D in Public Services, the experienced teaching team will offer enrichment activities that supplement the work you do in
the classroom. Examples of this include considering how to plan for and respond to major incidents at some of the UK’s biggest public spaces such as Christmas markets, sports stadiums, concert arenas and hospitals, as well as visits to the Crown Court to observe trials from the public gallery.

There will also be an opportunity to embark on a tour of historic battlefields during your studies. Recent learners have had the opportunity to visit the Western Front in
France and Belgium, where representatives of the course paid their respects to the fallen by laying a wreath at Menin Gate

In addition to the course it is recommended that you seek out other relevant qualifications and work experience that will help you gain employment.

The College can provide assistance in finding suitable qualifications/placements.

Typically, you'll need a relevant Level 3 qualification and at least 4 GCSEs at grade C (4) or above (including English and mathematics). All students will be interviewed and assessed individually.

The course is accredited by BTEC. There is no final written examination as you achieve your qualification through continuous assessment. This involves carrying out assignments, project work, case studies and practical based assessments in which you collect evidence of your competence until you have gained a Pass grade in all units and skills. If your work is outstanding you may be awarded an overall Merit or Distinction grade. It is imperative that all units are achieved on the programme in order to be awarded the qualification.

For more information contact Claire Peart, Curriculum Leader in Public Services by emailing claire.peart@nscg.ac.uk or calling 01782 254232

The HNC is equivalent to the first year at university and is a recognised Level 4 qualification. On completion of the HNC, students may choose to progress onto a HND which is is equivalent to the second year of a Bachelor's degree. We also have strong links with local universities who offer a Level 6 'top-up'year to achieved a full Bachelors degree.

Alternatively you can progress directly into employment in a variety of careers.

There are two types of loans to help students cover the costs of their higher education course in college: tuition fee loans and living cost loans (also called maintenance loans). You pay these loans back when you finish your course and earn over £25,000. If you earn less than that, you won’t have to repay anything. If you’re earning more than that, we’ll work out your repayments at 9% of your income over that amount.

Maintenance loans are only available to students studying on a full-time basis. They are not available for students studying on a part-time basis. For more details visit nscg.ac.uk/finance

You can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan or Higher Education Loan to help with the costs of your course if you are 19 or older and the course you are studying is an eligible Level 3, 4, 5 or 6 course. If you have any queries with regards to the funding of your course, please contact Charlotte Robertson on 01782 254141 or email charlotte.robertson@nscg.ac.uk