POLICE and Crime Commissioner John Dwyer, has welcomed the news that policing will not become a ‘degree only’ career.
The Home Secretary Suella Braverman addressed delegates at the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC) and National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) Partnership summit, stating that she has asked the College of Policing to ensure both degree and non-degree entry routes will remain open to candidates.
Since 2021, recruits seeking to become police constables have been required to have a degree or to join as an apprentice while they earn a qualification. This is all set to change, with the previous non-degree programme, the Initial Police Learning and Development Programme (IPLDP) remaining open while a new non-degree route is explored. It was previously planned to be phased out.
Mr Dwyer, said: “I welcome and wholeheartedly support this approach which will enable prospective candidates to enter the policing profession without the need for a degree.
“People learn in a variety of ways and opening up multiple paths of learning for those who want to join the police service means forces can attract many more candidates.
“I shared the concerns of many fellow Police and Crime Commissioners who wanted to maintain a non-degree entry route into the profession. I’m happy that the Home Secretary has heard and acted upon our voices and the voices of people across the police family.”
Home Secretary, Suella Braverman said: “I have asked the College [of Policing]to build on their work by considering options for a new non-degree entry route, to deliver officers of the highest calibre, which will complement the existing framework. In the meantime, the current transitional non-degree entry route will be kept open.
“Our police force must be open to those who do not have a degree or want one.
“I will take the scissors to any red tape that gets in your way.”
Mr Dwyer added: “In my Police and Crime Plan, I have committed to providing a visible police presence, and in Cheshire we are on track to having the highest number of officers in modern times.
“Providing reassurance to communities is key, and the rapport and relationships that can be built via on-the-job experience can be invaluable.”
More information about the College of Policing is available on their website www.college.police.uk
1 Comment
Great news. Now do the same with Nursing