IoP training integral as new recruits settle

“The partnership between Warwickshire Police and the IoP at Staffordshire University, supported through initiatives like the apprenticeship levy share programme, is a shining example of how higher education and law enforcement can collaborate to build the future of policing in the UK."

The Institute of Policing (IoP) at the University of Staffordshire has a strong tradition of excellence in police education, established as a key player in professionalising the police service through innovative learning programmes.

Since its formation, the IoP has developed partnerships with police forces such as Warwickshire Police, supporting them through the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) programme. The partnership began in 2019, aligning with the Policing Vision 2025 to enhance the skills and expertise of modern officers, and continues today to help enhance police education.

The PCDA route is designed to offer individuals a degree while working as a police constable. This programme not only helps recruits without higher education qualifications to gain a BSc (Hons) degree in Professional Policing Practice, but also integrates academic research with real-world policing. The hands-on approach ensures that apprentices are immersed in practical experience from day one, while benefiting from a supportive learning environment looking into the laws, theory and research behind professional policing.

One of the key benefits of the PCDA is the high calibre of teaching staff at the IoP with the programme being delivered by experienced academics and former police professionals. The team brings a wealth of practical insights from years of service in various roles within policing.

The lecturing team combines academic rigour with professional expertise, offering students a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of modern day policing. This is combined with first class practical training from trainers from within the partnered police forces. This access to experienced professionals from both the university and police force ensures that student officers gain not only theoretical knowledge but also practical skills that are immediately applicable in their roles as police constables​.

The Institute of Policing prides itself on its innovative learning techniques, using digital and simulated learning tools that allow student officers to train safely and learn before going out into the public. The university also offers a host of support networks to help student officers balance the demands of work and study more effectively. Since 2019, the Institute of Policing has onboarded thousands of student officers through digital inductions, making it a pioneer in adapting to changing learning environments.

The Institute’s excellence in police education has been recognised with numerous accolades, including being awarded winners of the Protective Services Apprenticeship Provider of the Year in 2024 in the AAC Apprenticeship Awards.

The IoP’s partnership with police forces like Warwickshire Police has played a crucial role in developing pioneering programmes such as the Detective Constable Degree Holder Entry Programme (DCDHEP), which was the first of its kind to be accredited by the College of Policing. The Step Up to Policing programme, also developed by the IoP, is the first in the UK aimed at widening access to policing for underrepresented groups. The IoP has successfully trained thousands of officers, with approximately 3,000 students having graduated or currently enrolled across various programmes​ since 2019.

Dr Nick Howe, Director of the Institute of Policing has said, “The partnership between Warwickshire Police and the IoP at Staffordshire University, supported through initiatives like the apprenticeship levy share programme, is a shining example of how higher education and law enforcement can collaborate to build the future of policing in the UK. It empowers officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle the evolving challenges of the modern world, contributing to a safer community for all.”