UCLan to train apprentice police

The University of Central Lancashire is to work with Lancashire Constabulary to deliver a new Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship.

It becomes the first university in the county to offer the programme, which has been designed in conjunction with the College of Policing as part of the new Policing Education Qualifications Framework for the National Policing Vision 2025.

The initial intake of 35 students has been officially sworn in, and each will now begin a 10 week in class programme, part based at the university in Preston and part working on the streets of Lancashire.

Students completing the course will attain a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Professional Policing Practice and fully qualify as police officers.

Professor Ian Allison of UCLan said: "The development of this innovative degree apprenticeship in the Police Service has involved a strong collaboration between Lancashire Constabulary, UCLan and the College of Policing in its governance role as the professional body for the service. This has ensured accreditation and quality in both design and delivery and is an exciting time for all involved in the move towards greater professionalisation of the service."

Clive Grunshaw, Lancashire police and crime commissioner, said: "Police officers come from all walks of life and work around the clock to keep people safe. Investing in our officers will always be a top priority and this new recruiting process is a good opportunity to gain hands on operational policing experience, whilst at the same time obtaining valuable academic qualifications to equip officers with the skills necessary to manage the increasing demands of modern policing."

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