Defence Awarding Organisation
Level 3
QN: 603/1288/9
Curriculum Active
DAO Level 3 Certificate in Small Arms Instruction
Official qualification regulated by Ofqual, awarded by Defence Awarding Organisation. Classified as a Vocationally-Related Qualification. Total guided learning hours: 106 hours.
Qualification Level
Level 3
Awarding Body
Defence Awarding Organisation
Syllabus Units
6 Units
Guided Hours
106 hrs
Instant access to interactive lessons, quizzes, and spaced revision.
Course Syllabus & Study Modules
Complete breakdown of verified curriculum topics and learning objectives.
1
Load, ready, unload and make safe
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Be able to instruct on loading the weapon.
- Be able to instruct on making the weapon ready.
- Be able to instruct on unloading the weapon.
- Be able to instruct on making the weapon safe.
- Be able to instruct safe handling of a weapon with a magazine fitted.
2
Plan and prepare for Small Arms instruction
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Be able to plan weapon instruction.
- Be able to prepare weapon instruction.
3
Safe stripping and assembly of a weapon
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand the importance of conducting Normal Safety Precautions (NSPs).
- Be able to conduct NSPs before, during and after small arms instruction.
- Be able to conduct Small Arms Instruction.
- Be able to instruct on the weapon sighting systems.
- Be able to instruct on stripping and assembly of the weapon.
4
Safe use of ammunition and containers
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Be able to describe ammunition types and containers.
- Be able to instruct on magazine filling.
- Be able to instruct on weapon sight setting.
5
Understand weapon technical details
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand technical data of the weapon.
- Understand the weapon sighting systems.
6
Weapon cleaning and maintenance
Verified
Key Learning Objectives:
- Understand weapon cleaning and maintenance.
- Be able to instruct on the use of the weapon Maintenance kit.
- Be able to instruct on how to inspect the weapon for damage.
Regulatory & Verification Details
- Qualification Number (QN)
- 603/1288/9
- Regulated Status
- Available to learners
- Awarding Body
- Defence Awarding Organisation
- Qualification Type
- Vocationally-Related Qualification
- Operational Start
- Mar 2017
- Operational End
- Mar 2026