Level 3 Protective Services (MAFA Pathway) Edexcel National Foundation Diploma (19+)
Course level: 3
Course code: CP0017 (2)
07/09/2026
Is this course right for me?
If you’re interested in joining the ambulance, fire & rescue, prison service, UK Border Agency, or military branches like the Army, RAF, Royal Navy, or Royal Marines, the MAFA (Military, Ambulance, Fire, and Other Services) pathway is the perfect starting point for a successful career in uniformed protective services.
The protective services sector requires staff with a diverse set of technical and operational skills. The Level 3 National Foundation Diploma in Protective Services (MAFA pathway) will provide you with the educational qualification, service awareness, and transferable skills needed for a variety of roles within these services.
The course combines scenario-based learning, simulated service situations, and lectures taught by experienced academic staff and retired professionals, preparing you with practical skills and confidence for your future career. Successful completion of the foundation diploma allows progression to the second year of the qualification—the Level 3 extended diploma.
Additionally, outstanding performance could enable you to achieve the required UCAS points to apply for a Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship a year early, allowing you to start your career in policing sooner.
You’ll also attend lessons to improve English and Maths or engage in directed study if you already have a Grade 4 or above. A 30-hour work placement is part of the course, and you will need to purchase a college-branded uniform costing around £70. Financial support may be available for these costs.
Course details
Entry Requirements:
To access this course you are required to have:
- Five or more GCSEs at Grade 4 or above including English and maths OR
- Successful completion of the Level 2 Diploma in Public Services
- If you are interested in a career as an ambulance paramedic /technician you would also benefit from having a Level 2 qualification in science/biology
You will also be required to purchase a college-branded uniform – details will be provided before the start of the course.
What will I learn?
During this course, you will study the following modules:
- Citizenship
- Behaviour and discipline in the uniformed protective services
- Physical preparation and fitness
- Teamwork, leadership and communication in the uniformed protective services
- Adventurous activities
- Technology
What skills will I gain?
By studying this course, you will:
- Gain an understanding of the public service sector
- Learn advanced skills in dealing effectively and sensitively with members of the public
- Develop knowledge, and awareness of skills required by the sector, including employability skills
- Discover the levels of fitness required for entry into your chosen service and how to improve your health and fitness to support your progression within the service.
- Gain valuable leadership, team working and communication skills by taking part in team-building activities and educational visits
- Develop skills in navigation and map reading.
- Develop common core knowledge of government policies, and their effect on society and citizenship and diversity
How will I be assessed?
Throughout the course you will be assessed in the following ways:
- Individual and group presentations
- Case studies
- Assignments
- Reports
- Practical fitness testing
- Practical application of map and compass work
What can I do next?
The skills you will learn from this course will enable you to:
- Progress to the Protective Services Level 3 Extended Diploma (MAFA Pathway)
- Apply to join your chosen public/protective service, subject to entry requirements
- Apply for the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (if required level of UCAS points achieved)
Future careers
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