Military preparation (MPCT)

The ETCAL Level 2 in Preparation for Military Service qualification will help you develop the skills and attitudes you need to gain employment in all branches of the British Armed Services. These skills are also highly valued by employers in any sector or industry.

Depending on how much time you spend on the course, you can progress through different levels of the qualification. These include a Certificate and Diploma. The aim of the course is to prepare you for getting a job. Getting a job is just the first step; we also focus on giving you the tools to succeed and advance in your role or future career.

In addition to qualifications you will develop your confidence, fitness, health, and ability to work within a team. You will gain the skills and knowledge required to progress to employment, further study, or an apprenticeship.

You will study the following units:

• Understanding the Military
• Teamwork in the Military
• Health and Safety
• Physical Fitness for Military Service
• Communication for Military Service
• Leadership for Military Service
• Fieldcraft for Military Service
• Navigation for Military Service

Functional Skills

The Functional Skills qualifications at the Military Preparation College support you to achieve your vocational aspirations, as these skills are becoming increasingly important in the workplace. They are intended to support you to improve your numeracy and literacy skills and to help you to develop and demonstrate that you can apply these vital skills to a range of situations. We will support you in achieving these qualifications, which will increase your confidence and motivation. The skills you gain will be valuable in further learning, work and life in general.

You can achieve the following functional skills qualifications:

• Entry Level 1, 2 and 3 in Mathematics
• Level 1 and 2 in Mathematics
• Entry Level 1, 2 and 3 in English
• Level 1 and 2 in English

This qualification is delivered through a blended, practical, and scenario-based approach that mirrors the environment and expectations of military service. Delivery is designed to be engaging, active, and relevant, allowing learners to build confidence and competence in military-relevant skills.

Typical Delivery Includes:

• Classroom-based sessions for theory (e.g. radio protocol, leadership theory)
• Practical group tasks (e.g. field-based communication, team missions)
• Simulated military exercises (e.g. foot drills, SITREP communication, evacuation drills)
• Role play (e.g. command tasks, briefings)
• Reflective learning (e.g. reviewing performance and peer feedback)

Assessment Approach

Assessment is continuous, internally assessed, and based on learners demonstrating that they can meet all required learning outcomes and assessment criteria for each unit.

Key Features:

• Pass-only grading (no merit/distinction)
• Portfolio-based evidence including:
• Observation of practical tasks
• Written answers (short-response or structured formats)
• Group work contributions
• Photographic or video evidence of practical performance
• Tutor/assessor feedback sheets

No formal written exams – assessment is based on ability to apply knowledge and skills in realistic settings

Assessment Methods May Include:

• Assessment Type Example Activities
• Practical Demonstration Giving fire control orders (CLAP, GRIT, FBID)
• Verbal Explanation Explaining radio procedure using the NATO alphabet
• Group Work Participating in and leading team-based exercises
• Written Tasks Describing vehicle/person using SCRIM or A-H format
• Peer/Instructor Feedback Reflecting on leadership role and teamwork performance

Key Assessment Focus Areas:

• Competency in military communication formats
• Understanding of teamwork dynamics
• Application of leadership in practical tasks
• Ability to evaluate and improve performance
• Professional behaviours expected in uniformed services
• If you're planning to run this course, I can also help create:
• A scheme of work
• Assessment recording templates
• Learner tracking sheets

You do not need qualifications to start the course but the right attitude is essential.

Here at MPCT we provider learners with skills that they require to progress onto their chosen career. The course is tailored to you. Your progress will depend on your personal ability and what career you'd like to aim for.

Upon successful achievement of the Level 2 course you can progress on to Level 3, meaning you would be with us for 2 years.

There are many routes that can be taken after your time with MPCT. Whether you want to progress into the Army, further education or a civilian career MPCT can help you get there.