New Police Recruits Ready to Serve Nottinghamshire
Three fresh cohorts of police recruits, each from a different Policing Education Qualification Framework (PEQF) entry route, are gearing up to protect local communities following their initial training.
Family and friends gathered at Nottinghamshire Police HQ on Friday 17 February to celebrate the first pass out ceremony of the year. The event marked Chief Constable Kate Meynell’s inaugural parade since taking command in December 2022.
Chief Constable Sets the Tone
“Our duty at Nottinghamshire Police is to fight crime, protect vulnerable people and make our communities feel safe and listened to,” said CC Meynell.
“When carrying out our duties, our commitment is to serve with integrity, pride and compassion. When I talk about pride, I mean being able to look yourself in the eye at the end of your shift and be proud of what you’ve done – because that means you’ve done a good job.”
Three Routes, One Goal: Policing the Streets
The first group of recruits graduated via the Professional Policing Degree (PPD) route. These officers completed a three-year degree before joining Nottinghamshire Police.
Next up are cohorts from the Degree Holder Entry Programme (DHEP) and Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA), with pass out parades scheduled for 24 February and 31 March respectively.
Sergeant Dylan Boddy from Learning & Development said this is a landmark moment for the force.
“For the first time, all three PEQF entry routes are producing new officers almost simultaneously. We’re welcoming 56 fresh faces to the Nottinghamshire frontline in just a few weeks.”
“Our recruits come from diverse backgrounds and experiences, helping us build a police force that truly reflects the communities we serve.”
“Offering various paths into policing means we can recruit rapidly and effectively – great news for Nottinghamshire residents.”
Meet PC Will Brewer: From Uni to Newark’s Frontline
Among the graduates was 24-year-old PC Will Brewer, who studied Professional Policing at the University of Northampton and gained experience as a Special Constable with Northamptonshire Police.
Now he’s joining the Response team at Newark Police Station.
“I’ve always seen the police as a beacon of hope in people’s darkest moments,” said Brewer. “A job where I can help those in need daily was something I couldn’t pass up.”
“I’m eager to build comradery and be part of a team that feels like family while tackling every incident head-on.”
The Police Uplift Programme: More Officers on the Streets
Nottinghamshire is part of a nationwide recruitment drive to add 20,000 officers across England and Wales under the Government’s Police Uplift Programme. Launched in 2019, Nottinghamshire met its target of 2,380 officers by March 2023 – a year ahead of schedule.
The force has boosted its ranks by over 400 officers since the programme began.
Understanding the PEQF Entry Routes
- Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA): A three-year blend of on-the-job training and academic study. You’re a police officer from day one and graduate with a BA Honours in Professional Policing Practice. Nottinghamshire partners with the University of Derby for this route.
- Degree Holder Entry Programme (DHEP): For degree holders in any subject. This two-year work-based programme leads to a graduate diploma in Professional Policing Practice and completes your probation.
- Professional Policing Degree (PPD): Study a three-year degree at your cost before applying to join. Special Constable roles may be available during study, with on-the-job training following entry.
Bonus Route: Military Service Leavers Pathway
Nottinghamshire Police is the first in the UK to launch a pilot pathway for armed forces personnel transitioning to policing. Candidates use their enhanced learning credits for a 12-week residential course at RAF Cranwell in their final service year. After successful completion, they join Nottinghamshire and continue with the PCDA programme.
Can You Join Without a Degree?
Yes. The Government reversed last year’s rule requiring trainee officers to hold degree-level qualifications. Meanwhile, the College of Policing is developing new non-degree entry routes, and the Initial Police Learning and Development Programme (IPLDP) remains available.
Want to Become a Nottinghamshire Police Officer?
The force welcomes applicants from all backgrounds who:
- Inspire and influence those around them
- Show courage and compassion
- Respect race, diversity, and treat people with dignity
Nottinghamshire Police is building a force that reflects its community. Could you be next?
