In 2019, TVP are introducing a range of new entry routes into policing, including the newly launched Police Community Support Officer Apprenticeship (PCSOA).
Find out about becoming a PCSO
You can’t arrest anyone, you have no handcuffs. Your communication and problem solving skills are now your most powerful assets. It’s all down to your ability to work with some of the most challenging people in some of the most difficult situations.
As a PCSO, you’re performing an essential role. You’re the face of the police within local communities. You won’t only make a difference, you will be the difference, by preventing trouble and making your community safer and stronger.
New apprenticeships
Applications are now open for our new PCSO Apprenticeship, with the first cohort of Officers planned to join the force in May.
There are no changes to the job role of PCSO, they continue to play an integral role in our neighbourhood teams. However the curriculum they follow will be enhanced, as the level of learning develops from Level 3 to Level 4 (higher apprenticeship, above A ‘Level standard) and their on-the-job learning will be accredited with a Diploma in Community Policing Practice when they pass their 12 months’ probation.
The entry requirements we ask for will now include Maths as well as English GCSE at grade A-C and candidates will require a full driving licence. After much consultation, the apprenticeship PCSO salary will be £19,122 rising to £20, 434 after 12 months.
Modern apprenticeships offer new opportunities to earn and learn for everyone from college leavers to career changers. They are essential to the Governments policy to improve the economy through enhancing skills and learning in the workplace. TVP, supported by the College of Policing advocates the further professionalisation of policing and has been introducing apprenticeships across a number of staff roles, with the PCSO apprenticeship heralding the start of the apprenticeships being introduced to Officer roles.
Early 2019 will also see TVP open for applications for the new pathways in to the role of Police Constable; the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) and Degree-Holder Entry Programme (DHEP).
Matthew Barber, Deputy Police & Crime Commissioner said; “This is a great opportunity for people to learn on the job and gain valuable qualifications. Policing is a complex business and the public rightly expect the best from Thames Valley Police. The new PCSO apprentices will play a vital role in delivering policing in our communities and transforming routes into policing.”
