Entry routes into policing
We are currently offering two entry routes into becoming a Police Officer with Suffolk Constabulary Constabulary. There's the Police Constable Entry Programme and the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship.
Both routes start your career as a Police Constable with a starting salary of £31,164 raising to £50,256 within seven years and are full-time (40 hours per week) work.
It's really important for you to make the right choice regarding which entry route suits you personally before you apply. Carefully read the guidance we have provided which explains the key differences between our entry routes. We can only support requests to transition between entry routes in exceptional circumstances.
See the table below for the key differences, and scroll down to learn more about each one in detail.
|
Programme |
||
|
Police Constable Entry Programme (PCEP) |
Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) |
|
|
Award accreditation |
Currently Non-Accredited Award |
BSc (Hons) Professional Policing Practice |
|
Minimum Qualification Requirements |
Minimum of a Level 2 qualification in English Language or English Literature at a GCSE (Grade C and above or level 4 to 9) or equivalent. |
Minimum of a Level 2 qualification in English (Language or Literature) and Maths at a GCSE Grade C and above or level 4 to 9, or equivalent. |
|
Length of Study, Probationary Period |
Two year probationary period to attain ‘Established Practitioner Status’. |
Three years study with two year probationary period. |
|
Annual Leave Entitlement |
22 days annual leave per year, excluding bank holidays. |
22 days annual leave per year, excluding bank holidays |
|
Assessment/exams |
Summative Assessments during the initial 22-week training course inc. 4 modular exams and selected Student Development Exercises. Plus a work-based portfolio supported by tutor, supervisors and assessors. |
Combination of written assessments, role plays and exams, as well as a work-based portfolio supported by tutor, supervisors and assessors. |
Or read more about each option below.
Please note: You can only apply to ONE of the two advertised routes, either PCDA or PCEP. Duplicate applications will be withdrawn.
Eligibility criteria
Route-specific qualification requirements are outlined on their respective pages.
- Candidates can apply when 17 years old but must be 18 by the time training commences.
-
Minimum of a Level 2 qualification in English Language or English Literature at a GCSE (Grade C and above or level 4 to 9) or equivalent..
Two A-Levels (or equivalent Level 3 qualification) holding 32 UCAS points OR
Evidence of two years’ experience in comparable role and completion of a skills assessment OR
Minimum of 2 years’ experience as a PCSO, Special Constable, or have served the minimum term of service with the UK Armed Forces and have achieved an exemplary reference on discharge (4+ years, or 3 years if pre-1999). You will be required to complete a skills assessment on application.
- Must hold a full UK manual driving licence upon application.
- UK Citizen or legal right to enter or leave to remain in the UK (lived in the UK for at least 3 years).
- Tattoos which are discriminatory, offensive, or provocative will not be accepted.
- Medical conditions will be assessed throughout the recruitment process, including eye tests and fitness tests.
- Background security checks will take place upon application; any formal dealings with the police must be declared.
Read more about each available entry route
