Police constable and detective constable roles

Choose your path into policing

Decide whether you want to join as a PC or as a detective in the Investigate First programme.

Many people start as a detective on the Investigate First programme, join a local policing team, and love it so much that they want to stay. Switching from a detective to PC isn't easy, but you can always join as a PC and later train to become a detective. If you change your mind during the application process and haven't joined yet, you'll need to reapply.

To avoid this, think about your long-term goals. Do you see yourself more as a detective, or would you be happier in a local policing team? By planning ahead, you can choose the path that best fits your aspirations and avoid having to start again. To help you decide, here are the main things to consider.

Think ahead, consider your options, and choose the path that's right for you!

Duties - police constable (PCs)

PCs are responsible for patrolling, responding to emergency calls, maintaining public order, and engaging with the community.

PCs work on preventing crime through visible presence and community engagement.

PCs conduct investigations for various incidents, gather evidence, and provide support to victims.

Duties - detectives

Detectives handle complex and serious investigations such as serious assaults, robbery, burglary, rape and sexual offences.

Detectives collect, analyse, and present evidence to support the prosecution of offenders through the criminal justice system. They may work in specialised units such as the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), Child and Adult Protection, Rape and Domestic Abuse Investigation.

Detectives conduct detailed interviews with victims, witnesses, and suspects to gather crucial information.

Training - police constable (PCs)

Training lasts around two to three years depending on your entry route, combining classroom learning with practical experience on the streets.

You will train at the Kent Police College in Maidstone covering law, community engagement, emergency response, and basic investigative skills. PCs also undergo physical training and learn how to handle various types of incidents.

You will receive ongoing training throughout your career to develop new skills and specialisms.

Training - detectives

You will undergo the same training as a PC but will be expected to undertake further detective training that is complex and challenging.

Your additional training includes the National Investigator’s Exam (NIE) and the Detectives Course. You can achieve your detective accreditation within three years.

Detective training focuses on advanced investigative techniques, evidence gathering, interviewing skills, and handling serious crimes. Detectives also receive training in specific areas such as cybercrime and training on specific crimes relevant to their role.

Option to transfer - police constables (PCs)

Yes. You can join as a PC and then train to become a detective after your probation period.

Option to transfer - detectives

No, if you are in the recruitment process and haven't yet started, you will need to reapply.

Yes, if you have already joined and started your training, but note that the process is not straightforward.