Military preparation (MPCT)

The NCFE Level 3 Certificate for Entry to the Uniformed Services qualification will help you develop an understanding of the principles of the uniformed services sector and to explore the various avenues of work within it. It will also demonstrate the transferable skills that can be applied to any workplace or further study. Learn about the skills and qualities needed to work in a range of uniformed services such as leadership. Also understand the personal commitment and fitness required to be employed within the sector.

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

NCFE Level 3 Certificate for Entry to the Uniformed Services You will study the following units:

• Prepare for a career in the uniformed services.
• Develop aspects of physical fitness
• Develop leadership skills
• Equality, diversity & inclusion
• Outdoor & adventurous activities
• Understanding discipline in the uniformed services

Additional units:

• Uniformed services hierarchy and routine
• Values and standards
• Mental and physical wellbeing
• Carry out map reading and navigation across open country
• Telecommunications in the uniformed services
• Understand conflict management and personal protection
• The influence of UK government, international organisations and the media on the uniformed services
• Collaboration between uniformed services
• Emergency planning and response in the uniformed services
• Understand the impact of war and conflict on uniformed services
• Sports coaching
• Skills for land-based outdoor and adventurous activities
• Skills for water-based outdoor and adventurous activities
• Outdoor and adventurous expeditions
• Understanding discipline in the uniformed services
• UK legal systems and uniformed services
• Crime scene investigation
• ICT in the uniformed services
• Volunteering in the uniformed services
• Human resources in the uniformed services
• Security procedures in the uniformed services

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

Completion of Level 2 course and/or GCSEs grades 9-4.

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.

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