Initial Police Learning and Development Programme (IPLDP)

You must meet the eligibility criteria for becoming a police officer and you will also need to meet one of the following:

1. A level 3 qualification, within the meaning of section 3 of the Education and Skills Act 2008.
2. I am a member of Essex Police staff, a PCSO or special constable and have passed my probationary period.
3. I have a minimum of three years’ service with the Armed Forces and have achieved an exemplary reference on discharge.
4. I have previous work experience or training relevant to the role of a Police Constable.

Evidencing previous work experience

To apply using your work experience or training you will need to show three things:

1 Work experience or training

That you have work experience or training that is comparable to a level 3 qualification. You will need to have completed one year’s work experience and have passed any mandatory probation period and training necessary in your role.

Our application form will require you to outline your experience of:

• understanding customer/public needs and provide effective support to the customer/public
• adapting your communication style to meet the needs of different people
• solving complex problems and making decisions

Level 3 requires you to have undertaken "more complex work" so please ensure that your evidence outlines your experience undertaking work at this level.

2 English skills

Hold a GCSE in English (Language or Literature) at grade C or above (or Grades 4 to 9 or equivalent). Or, provide evidence of how your experience or training is equivalent to a GCSE (or equivilent) in English and has equipped you with the potential to undertake the necessary elements of the role (for example writing statement, reports, reviewing information, speaking to the public, conducting interviews etc).

3 Maths skills

Hold a GCSE in Maths at grade C or above (or Grades 4 to 9 or equivalent). Or, provide evidence of how your experience or training is equivalent to a GCSE (or equivilent) in Maths and has equipped you with the potential to undertake the necessary elements of the role (for example problem solving, accounting, critically assess information, analyse data etc).

Please ensure all relevant training you have completed is detailed on the 'professional qualifications' section of the application form. We will consider this when assessing your application.

All qualifications will have to be evidenced before a formal offer is issued.

You will start your training at the Essex Police Training College in Chelmsford which will involve both classroom-based and practical learning. Upon successful completion of your initial training, you will leave the college and join an operational policing team where you will continue your learning and development whilst undertaking operational day-to-day police duties.

The programme will cover a wide range of policing topics including:

• Operational policing, legislation and police powers
• Protection, vulnerability and public protection
• Policing communities, response policing and crime investigation
• Officer safety training
• Emergency First Aid
• Safeguarding
• Application of policing skills

You will undertake a number of operational, written and practical assessments (including exams) throughout the programme to demonstrate your ability to carry out your policing responsibilities. In addition ,you will also be required to complete an Operational Competence Portfolio in which you will record your achievements and provide evidence of your progress in order to pass your operational assessments against a range of critical policing skills.

You will be fully supported throughout these processes in applying new skills and knowledge as part of your operational duties. This will enable you to apply what you are learning and assist you in developing and enhancing the skills and experience you need for this challenging but rewarding role.