Police Officer - Police Constable Entry Programme (PCEP)

The Police Constable Entry Programme (PCEP) is a comprehensive two-year training programme.

Training

• You will undertake an initial 24-week learning period at training centres in Sulhamstead and Kidlington.
• Following this, you will move to your designated Local Command Unit (LCU) for operational coaching and tutoring.
• This programme does not include academic assessment or accreditation.

Progression

Upon successful completion of the two-year probation on the PCEP, you will become a substantive Police Constable. You can then explore various opportunities for progression and specialism within the Force.

Salary

• Starting salary: £35,361 per annum (includes £3,105 South-East allowance).
• By your seventh year, officers can expect to earn in excess of £55,000 per annum.

Locations

This application is primarily for Berkshire, covering Bracknell, Maidenhead, Slough, Loddon Valley, Reading, and Newbury police stations. Locations in Buckinghamshire or Oxfordshire may also be considered if you can reach them.

Entry Requirements

• Age: At least 17 on application, 18 by start date. No upper age limit.
• Citizenship: British citizen, EC/EEA national with Pre-Settled/Settled status, Commonwealth citizen, or foreign national with Indefinite Leave to Remain and no restrictions.
• Residency: UK resident for the last 3 years.
• Qualifications/Experience: English GCSE (A*-C/9-4) or equivalent Level 2 qualification, AND two A-Levels (A-E) or equivalent. Alternatively, at least one year of relevant professional experience (e.g., armed forces, emergency services, police staff, PCSO/Special Constable, teaching, youth work) will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Driving Licence: Full UK driving licence (manual or automatic) required before a formal offer.
• Health: Good physical and mental health to perform duties.
• Tattoos/Piercings: None that cause offence.
• Location: Live within 40 road miles and a 1-hour commute of two main police stations before a formal offer. Flexibility is expected regarding postings.

Application Process

1. Self-assessment questionnaire
2. Application
3. National Sift (online)
4. Eligibility checking
5. Online Assessment Centre (OAC)
6. Interview (in-person)
7. Provisional offer
8. Pre-employment checks (including fitness test, medical, references, vetting)

Further Information

Thames Valley Police also offers the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) for those seeking academic accreditation alongside operational training.

Visit www.tvpcareers.co.uk/police-officer to learn more.