Police application..

[spotsandstripes]

Is there anyone on here who has insight into the police application process and any tips and pointers on all of this. Its always been my dream to apply to the police but as you only have two chances to ever join I want to go in with as much knowledge as possible which could further support my application in all stages. Tips on: how to complete the maths test, building up your fitness, the vetting process, pointers and advice on the general interview if successful through the SET you sit prior to the interview, what to wear...I know I am pretty much asking for a book, but I'm generally meaning there is not a specific pointer I'm requiring any information helpful. I REALLY want to get the first time right as it's something I have always wanted to do.

[exdc]

Hi spotsandstripes

It would be beneficial to join a police forum and speak to recently successful applicants etc or search the net for 'police P I R T'.

http://www.policeuk.com/forum/

PIRT examples: http://www.policeuk.com/assessment_centre.php

[exdc]

You should obtain copies of the policing plans for the force you wish to join and a copy of the Chief Constables Annual report. All divisional areas have Local Policing plans for the coming year which sets out their priorities for policing that area and the targets against which include setting out the priorities for policing the area and the targets against which they measure their performance. The force will also have a three or four year policing strategy which you should obtain. The reports can be obtained form your local police station or found on the force's website (or their Police Authority's site).

Dont worry about reading to deep into the reports but a basic understanding of what the force's near future 'vision' is and their recent performance may assist you in later interviews. The fact that you also made effort to obtain and read the reports may be able to be used as evidence of the competency 'drive and determination'.

[exdc]

Sorry the first paragraph should read:

You should obtain copies of the policing plans for the force you wish to join and a copy of the Chief Constables Annual report. All divisional areas have Local Policing plans for the coming year which include setting out the priorities for policing the area and the targets against which they measure their performance. The force will also have a three or four year policing strategy which you should obtain. The reports can be obtained form your local police station or found on the force's website (or their Police Authority's site).

[johnny37]

I suggest you google 'how to become a policemen' or 'police recruitment' There are many websites on the subject. I found how2become.co.uk very useful. For a small fee the info they send you is very extensive, even a cd of the bleep test I believe. I dont want to dampen your enthusiasm but I think you will find it difficult to find a force thatg is recruiting now or in the near future. They are all trying to downsize.

[thetortoise]

Are they actually recruiting at the moment? I understood that all forces had closed their vacancy sections including that of CSO.

[spotsandstripes]

They have not long had applications taken in and are recruiting in Feb as well. thanks to all the advice given on this I will pop in to the station at some point to ask for these :)

[exdc]

Hi

Start early with getting fit, in particular running, press-ups and sit-ups. The fitness test is not hard by any means but it is surprising how many will fail.

Always dress smart i.e suit at every appointment.

There will be a massive response to any recruitment campaign but it is estimated some 50 to 60% of applicants will not complete the application forms in time or simply wont bother. A further percentage will fail the initial paper-sift due to spelling / grammar errors, missing information and also by not answering questions correctly etc.

[spotsandstripes]

I'm into my fitness already. I go to the gym 5 days a week as it is and participate in yoga, pilates and aquafit so Im confident I will be ok with the fitness test, perhaps not on the strength so I need to work on this.

I was thinking about purchasing a good smart suit or skirt and smart shoes.

[hc4361]

Consider being a special for a year or so.

[vulcan]

Amazon.co.uk User Recommendation

This book might help.

[exdc]

Hi

I would be reluctant at this stage with regard to joining the Special Constabulary to use as a possible route to a becoming a full-time 'sworn officer'. Police farces seem to have a problem in recruiting and retaining good Specials, so if you are a any good and turn up regularly then it would be beneficial to that force to keep you as a free resource (which I am told is common). Thats not to say you would be unsuccessful as a lot of Specials and PCSO's / support staff are successful applicants.

Spotsandstripes, The police initial slection process has been described as similar to the Driving test, easy to pass but even easier to fail, so you have to do your homework etc and prepare. HAve you managed to look at any of the PIRT examples as yet?.