Special Constables
4. Training
You will receive all the same training that police officers have, except you will do this over 20 weekends. You can read more about the process of becoming a special constable below.
First phase
Once you have successfully completed the recruitment process and all the background checks, you will be invited to attend two induction evenings. The first will give you the opportunity to meet the training team and to learn what will be expected of you during the training process. The second induction evening will be to issue you with your training equipment.
Next, you will have 17 weekends of initial training over a 20 week period. This includes all theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to conduct a safe and lawful patrol including Personal Public Safety Training (PPST) and first aid training. These training sessions usually follow pattern of two on, one off, with the exception of PPST which takes place over three consecutive weekends. There are also midweek webinars and e-learning packages.
At this stage you will also attend your attestation where you will be sworn in as a Special Constable.
Throughout training you will be expected to pass frequent assessment to check your knowledge. You will also have to pass a mid-way exam and a final exam to ensure you are able to lawfully and safely complete your duties as a Special Constable. These assessments will primarily be practical exams.
Second phase
On your first operational shift you will be accompanied by a SIDO (Specials Integration Development Officer). They will ensure you have everything set up and ready to go for your first shift. They will also check in with you during this second phase to ensure you are progressing and check that everything is ok.
You will be assigned to a response or neighbourhood policing team with a regular Sergeant and PC who will help and support you in gaining real world experience in everything you have learnt during the first phase of your training. They will help you increase your confidence and competence and will work through your Professional Development Plan (PDP) with you.
After completing your PDP (this usually takes around 18 months to complete) you will receive Independent Patrol Status, meaning you will no longer need to be accompanied and can patrol and respond to incidents on your own.
You will be encouraged to continue to make use of your SIDO to help maintain your continuing professional development (CPD), as well as to attend ongoing CPD opportunities.