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How to become a Police Officer

Police Officer

Career progression and salary expectations for a Police Officer

1

Police Officer

| Up to £36,000

The role of a Police Officer

Do you dream of making the world a safer place? Are you looking for a career that can really make a difference in your community? Then you could make a great Police Officer.The police work to maintain order and make local communities safer, whether they are tiny rural villages or sprawling big cities. Officers investigate and try to prevent crime, as well as working to find the culprits of crimes that have already been committed.Day-to-day duties will vary, but your responsibilities will generally include:
  • Investigating crimes and arresting the perpetrators
  • Interviewing witnesses and suspects
  • Responding to emergency calls
  • Going to court to give evidence
  • Attending big events such as football matches to promote order
  • Giving talks at locations like schools to encourage police recruitment
There are no formal educational requirements when it comes to entering police service, so you can join straight from sixth form or come to it later in life. However, you must have lived in Britain for three years, be over 18 and pass background and security tests.Besides that, a good Police Officer will be:
  • Honest and responsible
  • Confident with people from all walks of life
  • Knowledgeable about the law
  • Calm in a crisis - even a life-threatening one
  • Excellent at communication
  • Full of common sense
  • Physically fit
"I've heard lots of people say they couldn't do my job, but I love it. The role is varied and every week is different. There are also lots of opportunities to have a chat with members of the public, which is ideal if you're sociable like me. Of course, it can be dangerous and the shifts are sometimes tiring, but knowing I'm making a difference in my community makes it really worthwhile."

Get qualified as a Police Officer

Although no formal qualifications are needed to start your career, you will need to pass a series of assessment tests before becoming trainee police officer. Assessments will be in areas such as mathematics, communication, reading and writing skills, and decision making. You will also need to pass basic physical fitness and health checks.

Recommended Police Officer courses

  • Criminal Law With CPD Certificate

    Cambridge Open Academy
    CPD Certification Service Approved| 30 CPD Points| FREE Certificate +Two Premium Courses| Interactive Learning Materials
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    Great service
    **3 in 1 Criminal Law With CPD Certificate bundle** Explore the intricate world of Criminal Law with our comprehensive course, meticulously designed to provide a profound understanding of criminal justice. With 22 modules that delve into the core principles of the legal system, y …
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    ...variety of fields: Police officer Probation Service officer Prison Service officer Prison warden Intelligence analyst Security manager Police community support officer Politician's assistant Public affairs consultant Public relations officer Court officer Security consultant …
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