Met Police Celebrate Massive Apprenticeship Parade Comeback
The Met Police proudly reunited for their first proper passing out parade in over a year, dazzling crowds with 350 recruits, including their historic first-ever apprenticeship cohort. Families and friends gathered to cheer on the fresh-faced officers as they marched in style.
Apprentices and Delayed Recruits Shine at Hendon
A total of 185 apprentice PCs and DCs, who kicked off their university and on-the-ground training this January, earned their stripes and independent patrol status. Alongside them, 183 recruits from earlier cohorts finally had their moment after pandemic delays.
The British Imperial Military Band added pomp and circumstance while 17 exceptional recruits snagged awards, each accompanied by two special guests.
Dame Cressida Dick: “Now’s the Time to Join the Met”
“I’m delighted to celebrate the achievements of hundreds of recruits with their families and friends,” said Met Police Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick.
“We’re committed to building a force that truly mirrors London’s diverse communities. To those considering a career here, especially from under-represented groups: this is a great job, filled with challenge and reward. Now more than ever, your skills and backgrounds can make us stronger.”
Diverse Cohort and Inspiring Stories
The apprenticeship group boasts 137 trainee PCs—over half women—and 50 trainee DCs with a strong female presence. Around 35% come from under-represented backgrounds.
Among them is ex-prison officer PC Anushka Navaratne Mudiyanselage, 30, who emigrated from Sri Lanka at 16. “Joining the Met has been my dream. Passing out today in front of friends and the Commissioner was a proud moment. I want to give back to London’s communities,” he said.
Rebooting Recruitment with Real-Life Role Models
The latest recruitment drive highlights diverse Met officers sharing personal journeys— from a black, gay male officer to a senior detective balancing motherhood with policing duties—underlining the force’s push for greater inclusivity.
Dame Cressida’s target? For under-represented groups to make up 40% of new recruits from April 2022 onward.
Barriers like fear of family disapproval and misconceptions about policing’s flexibility—especially for women—are being tackled head-on by these inspiring stories.
With over 5,000 officers from diverse backgrounds keeping London safe—and 450 joining just last year—the Met is opening doors wider than ever.
Fancy joining the Met? Find out how at www.met.police.uk/careers.
