Military Veteran Trades Bomb Disposal for Badge in New Police Scheme
Christopher Wagstaff, a corporal from the Royal Engineers bomb disposal unit, is swapping army boots for a police uniform. The 33-year-old Mansfield dad is about to kickstart a fresh career with Nottinghamshire Police, thanks to a groundbreaking 12-week training pilot designed specifically for military leavers.
Fast-Track to Policing: New Pathway Launched
Nottinghamshire Police and the University of Derby have teamed up to launch the UK’s first Military Service Leavers Pathway into Policing programme. Held at RAF Cranwell, this innovative course fast-tracks ex-servicemen and women through the first year of the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA), slashing typical training times.
The Ministry of Defence backs the scheme, recognising the invaluable skills service members bring. The pilot course is already turning heads for blending military discipline with civilian policing expertise.
From Bombs to Badges: Wagstaff Fulfils Lifelong Dream
“I have always wanted to be a police officer from a very young age,” said Cpl Wagstaff. “Watching The Bill in my teens really fired that dream. I’ve loved helping people in the army, but now I want to help the local community I live in.”
“With my military experience, I feel ready and well-equipped to be a great officer. I’m aiming to stay on until retirement and hope to join the roads policing team.”
Wagstaff praised the shared values between military and police work. “Teamwork and discipline are key in both services. Anyone leaving the military is well-suited to policing.”
Another Veteran Joins Up After Naval Career
Similarly, Elliott Atkin, a 31-year-old Royal Navy aircraft engineer with 11 years’ military service, including seven with the Royal Marines, is embracing the police pathway. He served as a Signaller on HMS Bulwark during the 2014-15 Mediterranean migrant crisis. He’s now looking forward to a community-focused career closer to his family.
“I loved every minute in the military, but with a wife and two young kids, I wanted to settle down,” Atkin said. “The training is tough but rewarding. I’m excited to use my skills to serve Nottinghamshire’s communities.”
Top Brass and Officials Praise Military-to-Police Initiative
Nottinghamshire Police Chief Constable Kate Meynell hailed the new route as “a fantastic way to bring disciplined, skilled personnel into policing.” She praised veterans’ practical experience, from medical expertise to negotiation skills.
Professor Lynn Saunders OBE from the University of Derby underscored the programme’s innovation and academic backing, while Defence Minister Dr Andrew Murrison called it “an exciting opportunity recognising the talents of our service leavers.”
Police and Crime Commissioner Caroline Henry highlighted the force’s veteran-friendly approach, with 110 ex-service officers already on board. She confirmed other forces across England and Wales are keen to adopt the scheme after the pilot’s success.
With the first cohort due to finish their training in March 2023 and join Nottinghamshire Police by June, this revolutionary pathway could mark a new era in recruitment — turning military expertise into frontline neighbourhood heroes.
