Hucknall at heart of Notts police training

Inspector Nick Butler attends the new recruit parade at Hucknall Police Station.

After successfully applying for this public service role, which is as popular as ever if recent application numbers are anything to go by, trainees embark on the two year probationer period to prepare them for their chosen career.

For many years, trainees received their initial training and subsequent courses at the force’s training centre at Epperstone. However this facility closed in 2003 and the training centre was relocated to Hucknall.

It is here on Watnall Road where they will meet their training officers including Dylan Boddy who is the Initial Police Learning (IPLDP) Lead for Nottinghamshire.

“This is the start of an intensive two year programme for the recruits and it’s really important that they meet the high criteria set out in the learning package as we have to get it right,” said T/SGT Boddy.

The initial training lasts 18 weeks during which recruits will study policy, law, procedure, customer service and the fundamental values of the police force.

This will include role play practical assessments, knowledge exams, statements and file keeping.

“We will assess trainees throughout this period by checking them against the key performance indicators which includes behaviour, attitude, professionalism and knowledge.”

Once completed, recruits will then be dispatched to their station for a 10 week tutorship with specially trained officers to put the theory into practice.

The final stage of training is 75 weeks of Independent Patrol Status.

“This is the time when they are a regular officer on shift developing their skills and practice.”

As part of the new training programme, all police recruits will now follow the National Diploma in Policing which is mandatory with national standard assessments.

“The programme has been redesigned and each recruit is constantly assessed and scrutinised throughout,” added T/Sgt Boddy. “They have to have a strong desire and commitment to public service to succeed.

“Becoming a police officer is a massive role and even if recruits have come from within the force, the expectation on them to take the lead in different scenarios requires many different skills.

“It’s fundamental that they deliver the public service and help keep people safe and earn the respect of the community in the most cost effective way.”