Apprenticeship · Level 6 (Degree)
TL;DR
Key Takeaways
- Earn a starting salary of £32,256, rising to £52,014 within seven years, while studying for a Level 6 Degree in Professional Policing Practice.
- Undertake a three-year blended learning apprenticeship combining frontline policing experience with academic study.
- Meet specific academic (Level 2 English and Level 3/4/5 qualification), fitness, medical, vetting, and residency requirements.
- Gain a BA Degree in Professional Policing Practice upon successful completion.
About the Role
Join West Midlands Police as a Police Constable Degree Apprentice (PCDA) and earn a degree while gaining hands-on experience.
As a Police Constable, you will play a vital role in keeping communities safe, protecting the vulnerable, and tackling crime. This is a challenging but rewarding career.
Earn & Learn
- You will be a fully employed police officer from day one.
- Study towards a Level 6 Degree in Professional Policing Practice over three years.
Blended Learning
- Most training is delivered in-house at West Midlands Police, supported by a partner university.
- Classroom learning is combined with frontline policing and digital study.
Ongoing Support
- Training is practical and designed to prepare you for real-life policing.
- Guidance is provided by experienced officers.
Future Opportunities
- After completing probation, access a wide range of career paths, including specialist units (Firearms, Dogs, Roads Policing, Investigations) and leadership roles.
- Note: This is not a direct Detective route, but you may apply to join the Detective Academy pathway after initial training.
What’s in it for you?
- Starting Salary: £32,256, rising annually up to £52,014 within seven years.
- Qualification: BA Degree in Professional Policing Practice (on successful completion).
- Annual Leave: 25 days, rising to 30 after five years.
- Benefits: Pension scheme, employee support, staff networks, and professional development opportunities.
- Impact: Make a lasting impact on communities while developing your skills and future.
Entry Requirements
- Academic:
- Level 2 English (Grade C/4 or above).
- AND one of the following:
- Level 3 qualification worth at least 80 UCAS points.
- Level 4 or 5 qualification.
- Only final certificates will be accepted and must be uploaded with your application.
- Fitness, Medical & Vetting:
- Meet the bleep test standard of 5.4.
- Pass medical checks (may include drug and fitness testing).
- Pass required vetting checks.
- Residency & Nationality:
- Lived in the UK for the past 3 years.
- Must be a British or EEA national, or have the right to work in the UK without restrictions.
Application Process
- Refer to the careers website for a step-by-step breakdown.
- The programme involves a three-year blended learning apprenticeship combining policing experience with academic study.