Discover a rewarding path to a great future
Discover a rewarding path to a great future
Joining the police is a life-changing decision. It’s challenging, but also exciting, varied, and deeply rewarding, with the ultimate goal of keeping our communities safe.
The Police Constable Entry Programme (PCEP) is a two-year training route approved by the College of Policing, starting at the Leicestershire Police Training Academy in Enderby. You’ll learn both in the classroom and on the job, gaining hands-on experience from our experienced colleagues.
Your initial training is supported by our dedicated team, followed by 12 weeks in uniform under the guidance of a tutor to achieve Independent Patrol Status (IPS). After 37 weeks, you’ll move to a station for more on-the-job learning, with an additional 5 weeks of classroom training in Year 2 to strengthen your problem-solving and critical thinking skills. The programme ends with assessments to ensure full operational competence and confirmation in rank. You’ll have all the support you need to succeed!
Age
You must be 17 or older when applying. If you’re 17, you can progress through the recruitment process but can’t start until you turn 18
Nationality and residency
Applicants must be a UK citizen, EU citizen with Settled or Pre-Settled status, Commonwealth citizen, or Foreign National with no restrictions on stay. You should have lived in the UK for the last 3 years
Education
You'll need 2 A levels (grade A-E) or equivalent Level 3 qualification or be in your last year of study
Policing experience
If you're a serving PCSO, Special Constable, or ISA, you can apply if you meet the necessary experience and training requirements
Driving licence
You must hold a full UK/EU valid manual driving licence at pre-employment stage which is typically 16 weeks prior to the cohort start date.
Fitness
You’ll need to pass a Job-Related Fitness Test (JRFT), which includes a running test (bleep test) to level 5:4. You’ll get two attempts to pass
Health assessment
You’ll complete a confidential medical questionnaire, and depending on your history, we may contact your GP. Conditions like epilepsy are considered on a case-by-case basis
Background checks
You must declare any cautions, convictions (spent or unspent), bind-overs or reprimands may not be accepted. Be honest!
Being a police officer is challenging, both physically and emotionally, but it’s incredibly rewarding. To help you decide if it’s the right fit, try our 'Is Policing Right For Me?' quiz. It’s a great way to explore your suitability and make an informed decision about applying. Keep in mind, it’s a guide, not a final answer.
The following criteria may prevent you from applying, so please be open and honest throughout the recruitment process. Be sure to check all criteria before applying!
Existing or pending convictions
You may not be eligible to apply if you have ever received a prison sentence, have certain convictions or cautions (including listed offence or attempt to commit a listed offence) or have received a conviction, caution, reprimand or bind-overs, or are currently awaiting the outcome of criminal proceedings.
A previous unsuccessful application
If you have had an application turned down by a police force in the last three months at any part of the national process.
Membership of some organisations
If you have been or are a member of a group or extreme political organisation such as BNP, National Front or Combat 18 that stirs up racial hatred and violence, a proscribed terrorist organisation, group or a similar organisation.
Substance misuse
This includes the misuse of drugs, solvents and anabolic steroids. However each case is considered upon its own merits.
Offensive tattoos
If you have tattoos on your face, neck or hands which could cause offence. However the nature, location, size, prominence and appearance of tattoos will be considered.
Financial checks
If you have any current County Court Judgements (CCJ) against you or be the subject of an Individual Voluntary Agreement (IVA). If you have been registered bankrupt, you may only apply if it is at least three years since the date your debts were discharged
Switching from professional basketball to policing was the best decision I’ve made. As a Neighbourhood Patrol Officer in Leicester’s diverse city centre, every day brings new challenges - and the chance to make a real difference. Coming from a Caribbean background, I’m proud to represent my community and serve others with empathy and respect. The job is fast-paced and demanding, but the reward of helping someone in need is unmatched. If you’re thinking about joining - just do it. You won’t regret it.
Leaving digital marketing to join Leicestershire Police was life-changing. Through the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship, I’ve grown in confidence, stepped outside my comfort zone, and found purpose in breaking stereotypes and supporting my community. Representation matters - wearing the hijab on the frontline shows others that there are no limits here. I’m proud to be part of a force that values inclusion, and I hope to inspire more Muslim women to see policing as a place where they truly belong.
Want to learn what it's really like to be a police officer or detective? Join us to hear first-hand from serving officers, discover the recruitment process, and explore career opportunities with Leicestershire Police. Registration is easy – just check out the timetable below and sign up for the event you’d like to attend. After the event, we’ll share the application link with you to take the next step!
