Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship
Choosing the PCDA route means we’ll consider your application with or without a degree where after three years, you’ll achieve a BSc (Hons) degree in Professional Policing Practice, fully funded by us.
The course combines practical “on the job” training with academic learning, allowing you to ‘earn while you learn’ without any student debt.
You will be employed as a Police Officer from day one and receive a starting salary of £31,907 which includes a £2,000 South East allowance with the potential to rise to £52,231 within the first seven years.
You will be fully supported throughout the process, helping you to develop and enhance the skills and experience you need for this challenging but rewarding role.
Keep reading below to find out if this role and route is right for you.
We are driven by our purpose. We are Sussex Police. Are you?
If you’re confident, calm, compassionate, empathetic, resilient, and able to make quick, informed decisions, you’re who we’re looking for to help keep Sussex safe. Not only is this a diverse and challenging career, but it’s also incredibly rewarding because we’re the change we want to see in our community.Police Officers are the face of our force so in this role communities will rely on you, on the front line, to protect them, catch criminals and deliver outstanding service.
Separating emotion from fact can be challenging; you’ll receive the training and support to make it possible. Your listening and communication skills will not only help you ask the right questions to gauge situations, they’ll help you build trusting relationships with the public, victims, witnesses and suspects.We’re in a fast-paced 24/7 environment where no two shifts are ever the same.
You should consider whether you can:
Deal with the complex and sensitive cases, requiring clear reasoning and evidence gathering.Think on your feet – problem solving and responding to new challenges.
Develop new skills as data and technology become ever more important to policing.
Work well with colleagues as part of an effective team.
Have great people skills, remaining calm and patient with members of the public, particularly in stressful or volatile situations.
Handle traumatic situations and be able to communicate information sensitively.
Be decisive and use your police powers appropriately.
Give clear and accurate evidence in court.
Work shifts, nights and weekends (including public holidays).
Be flexible about where you work - you might not work in your preferred location.
Be willing and able to meet the academic demands and deadlines throughout the programme.
You’ll receive training and support throughout your career to help you manage the demands of policing, but it’s important to be sure that becoming a police officer is right for you.