The Level 2 BTEC First Diploma in Public Services is an internationally recognised qualificaton equivalent to 4 GCSE's at A* - C Level.

The syllabus has been designed to improve valuable life skills and includes the following areas:

          • CV preparation and interviewing techniques.
          • Communication.
          • First Aid.
          • Adventure Training.
          • Health and Nutrition.

Cadets must be 16 to enrol in the BTEC programme and in addition to existing cadet activities, cadets are required to complete the course syllabus. This includes supervised adventure training activities and occasional weekend training.

All coursework is assessed by Edexcel. To enrol, speak to your Detachment Commander and for further information, please click to visit the CVQO website.

Below are some frequently asked questions about the scheme.

Does my cadet training count towards the BTEC? Yes it does. You can complete up to 77% of the qualification just by participating in your normal cadet activities.

Is there extra work involved? There is extra work above and beyond cadet time.

Do I need to complete a full Duke of Edinburgh Award to use towards the BTEC Diploma? No, a minimum of Bronze Expedition Training and/or Physical Recreation would count towards the Diploma.

Why earn a vocational qualification? Realise your potential by gaining a recognised qualification that shows employers the valuable skills you have learned within the ACF. The vast experience and achievements gained through cadet related activities can be rewarded academically, giving you qualifications that you can use in all walks of life. A vocational qualification shows employers that you have proven an ability to carry out the relevant tasks for that award, possibly enhancing your employability and promotion prospects.

Will this cost me anything? There are no costs involved in the programme for cadets. If Adult Instructors wish to gain this qualification, they can do so by paying a registration fee.

How much supervision is involved? On average, there is one adult leader for every 10-12 cadets.

How long does it take to complete the BTEC Diploma?
Although you may complete the requirements sooner, you will have up to two years to complete them.

I may have completed the Adventure Training requirements elsewhere; will it count towards the BTEC? If you feel you have already completed the AT requirements, ask your instructor to send us a letter from the Unit, stating which two AT activities have been completed. These can include any Duke of Edinburgh Award Certificates and/or certain Leadership courses. You must complete two activities and a residential stay/annual camp.

Can I enrol and complete the Aviation Studies BTEC? No. The Aviation Studies BTEC is only offered through the ATC and not one of our qualifications. For more information, speak with your Training Officer.

I now have a Silver or Gold Award - What happens next? Your instructor needs to advise CVQO that you now have the DofE Silver (or Gold). Once they send us proof, we will update your records.

Does it matter that I have not done the Bronze or Silver DofE, but am starting at Gold Level? No. It doesn't matter which level you begin.

What Sporting Achievements count? If you have competed at Unit, County, Country, Olympics or school level, your unit instructor will need to provide us with a list and/or copies of certificates of the activities you have undertaken and at what level you competed. This can also include copies of letters, or certificates from your school if appropriate.