Why study SfW Uniformed and Emergency Services?

This course is an introduction to the uniformed and emergency services: the Army, Merchant Navy, Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, Ambulance Service, Coastguard, Fire and Rescue, and Police. It looks into the different roles and responsibilities of those working in the various services.

Uniformed and Emergency Services offer good opportunities for those who enjoy:

• working in a team
• keeping fit and healthy
• taking on challenging situations
• making decisions
• being responsible
• keeping calm under pressure.

Career Pathways

To see what career areas this subject could lead to and the routes to get there, download and view these career pathways:

Health and Medicine

Transport and Distribution

Uniformed and Security Services

What do I need to get in?

Entry is at the discretion of the school or college.

What will I study?

The course is made up of four compulsory units, each one taking 40 hours of study:

• An Introduction to the Uniformed and Emergency Services OR An Introduction to the Uniformed and Emergency Services (Scotland)
• Health, Safety, Fitness and Wellbeing
• Engaging with the Community
• Working in Teams

You will learn about:

• the great variety of career opportunities in this sector
• managing unpredictable situations
• defusing a heated, confrontational situation
• the importance of teamwork in the uniformed and emergency services
• meeting the physical fitness standards of some services
• carrying out risk assessments.

Where will I take the course?

You will usually train at a local college. Training sessions will take place for a set number of hours and weeks during term time.

Work experience/placements

For health and safety reasons, work placements in this sector not usually available. However, your school or college may be able to arrange visits to real workplace settings. You may also be able to hear about the sector from visiting speakers.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment will be based on a range of practical activities in real or simulated workplace settings. Tutors will observe and keep records of your work. Some assessment may be done online using an e-portfolio system.

What can I go on to next?

You may be able to progress to:

Employment /Training

• Recruitment to the armed services.
• A job in fire and rescue services or police force. You must be 18 years of age or older to join the fire and rescue services and would complete a Modern Apprenticeship in Firefighting or Policing at SCQF Level 7.

Further/Higher Education

•  A one year full time NC or NQ in entry to uniformed services such as Uniformed Services or Preparation for Entry to Uniformed Service at a local college of further education.

Further study, training or employment in:

• Health and Medicine
• Transport and Distribution
• Uniformed and Security Services

Which jobs are related to this subject?

• SfW Uniformed and Emergency Services - Related Careers