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Police officer: Training

All new police officers undertake an extensive and professional training programme known as the Initial Police Learning and Development Programme (IPLDP) during their first two years of service. Individual forces are responsible for the local implementation and delivery of IPLDP and the emphasis is upon local community involvement and a flexible timetable. IPLDP is divided into four training phases which cover the completion of the NVQ in Policing (levels 3 and 4):

• phase 1 - Induction (two - five weeks): general introduction to the organisation with training in first aid, health and safety, officer safety, ICT, race and diversity, human rights and community safety strategy;
• phase 2 - Community (two - four weeks): training in crime and disorder reduction and a community placement;
• phase 3 - Basic Police Skills (week seven for 28 weeks): work-place practice supported by class-based learning, learning in a 'replicated work environment' and work-based learning under supervised patrol;
• phase 4 - Independent Patrol (weeks 35 to 104): combines operational duties with independent and distance learning.

Continuing professional development (CPD) and ongoing training are important. Annual performance and development reviews (PDRs) assess and monitor the progress of police officers to ensure that their professional skills are kept up to date and that they are abreast of the demands of a constantly changing work environment.

The Police High Potential Development (HPD) Scheme is available to serving police officers and is designed to develop the future leaders of the police force. Academic study forms part of the current HPD scheme and some candidates have combined postgraduate level study as part of their development. The HPD scheme is currently under review by the National Policing Improvements Agency (NPIA) and is expected to be available in its new format by April 2008. Check the 'services' page on their website for more details. In Scotland the Accelerated Promotion Scheme for Graduates (APSG) invites applications from the 'most promising and capable graduates', providing a structured career path. Both these schemes are aimed at individuals who have the motivation and ability to reach senior positions.

AGCAS

Written by Linda Holdsworth, University of Bradford

Last updated:

March 2008

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