Budding police officers can now train on the job and gain a degree from Sheffield Hallam University at the same time - thanks to a new partnership with South Yorkshire Police.
The University has teamed up with the force to launch a new three-year degree apprenticeship in policing which will be taught at police premises and the Helena Kennedy Centre for International Justice.
Learners will be employed by South Yorkshire Police and will attend a series of study blocks throughout the year within the University's award-winning teaching facilities, with the remaining time being spent applying their learning within the workplace.
The Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship is one of the three new routes approved by the College of Policing as part of the Policing Education Qualifications Framework (PEQF) in order to become a police officer from January 2020.
Professor Sir Chris Husbands, Vice-Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University, said: “I am delighted to be working with South Yorkshire Police to diversify routes into policing. The three options that Sheffield Hallam now offers aspiring police officers will hopefully attract a broader spectrum of applicants into the profession, and establish Sheffield Hallam as one of the leading policing providers for our region.”
South Yorkshire Police Chief Constable Stephen Watson, said: “We are pleased to announce our partnership with Sheffield Hallam University on our PCDA programme. This partnership will provide driven individuals across the whole region with the opportunity to earn a degree whilst working with the police as a serving officer.
“The world of policing is ever-changing, and our officers need an evolving skillset to navigate the dynamic nature of their roles. We are delighted at the prospect of providing this academic programme for our new officers, and we hope it may attract individuals who may not have previously considered a career in policing.”
Sheffield Hallam is also able to offer an alternative route into the profession for graduates through the new degree holder entry programme (DHEP) for South Yorkshire Police.
The third route offered by the University is a new undergraduate BA Professional Policing degree course starting in September.
In total there are 110 apprenticeship places and 70 places on DHEP. Numbers for the BA will be finalised after Clearing.
In addition, those studying on the BA course will see all their lectures delivered online and attend a day of seminars a week. Students will be able to apply for a job as a police officer at any force on completion.
Paul Berry, principal lecturer and head of policing in the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities at Sheffield Hallam University, said: “We are delighted the University has been successful in its bid to run the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship scheme on behalf of South Yorkshire Police.
"The degree apprenticeship allows entrants to receive practical, on-the-job learning, alongside academic theory and knowledge while earning a wage. Successful completion of the three-year programme results in the award of a degree in professional policing practice.
"This is genuinely exciting news and we now have the chance to ensure that Sheffield Hallam becomes a major policing provider in this region. I am really looking forward to working with our local force and in particular the opportunity for our lecturers and South Yorkshire Police's training staff to share the delivery of some aspects of the courses."
Sheffield Hallam University is committed to building stronger communities both locally and further afield. Through its research, education and partnerships Sheffield Hallam aims to create a more equal, fair and safe society.
