The application process

Applicants from all backgrounds and ethnic groups are encouraged to apply.

Applicants are not limited to any particular age group – in fact, we welcome those who are looking for a career change. The minimum age to apply is 18, and there is no upper age limit, though you should bear in mind that the normal retirement age for police constables and sergeants is 60.

You should also be aware that all new recruits, whatever their age, are required to undertake a two-year probationary period.

You will need to hold the following qualifications prior to applying for the following training programmes.

Initial Policing Learning and Development Program (IPLDP)

• A Level 3 qualification within the meaning of Section 3 of the Education and Skills Act 2008 or the equivalent experience.

Applicants working towards these criteria will not receive an unconditional offer until able to evidence successful completion.

Where an applicant does not hold a level 3 qualification as per the criteria above, we will also consider training or work experience, whether undertaken in or outside England and Wales, which is considered to be equivalent to a level 3 qualification.

Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA)

• You must hold a level 2 qualification in both English Language and Mathematics at Level 2 / GCSE (A*-C or 9-4) or equivalent, and;
  
  
• a level 3 qualification within the meaning of Section 3 of the Education and Skills Act 2008 or the equivalent experience.

Applicants working towards these criteria will not receive an unconditional offer until able to evidence successful completion.

Where an applicant does not hold a level 3 qualification as per the criteria above, we will also consider training or work experience, whether undertaken in or outside England and Wales, which is considered to be equivalent to a level 3 qualification.

Military Widening Access Course (MWAC)

You must be a current serving member of the Her Majesty’s Armed Forces, and be eligible for Enhance Learning Credits.

• You must hold a level 2 qualification in both English Language and Mathematics at Level 2 / GCSE (A*-C or 9-4) or equivalent, and;
  
  
• a level 3 qualification within the meaning of Section 3 of the Education and Skills Act 2008 or the equivalent experience.

Applicants working towards these criteria will not receive an unconditional offer until able to evidence successful completion.

Where an applicant does not hold a level 3 qualification as per the criteria above, we will also consider training or work experience, whether undertaken in or outside England and Wales, which is considered to be equivalent to a level 3 qualification.

Professional Policing Degree (PPD)

• You must hold a level 2 qualification in both English Language and Mathematics at Level 2 / GCSE (A*-C or 9-4) or equivalent, and;
  
  
• a level 6 qualification (Honours Degree; Third Class and above) in a Professional Policing Practice.

Please note that all candidates will be required to provide evidence that they hold the above qualifications during the recruitment and selection process, which will include providing copies of certificates.

Degree Holder Entry Programme (DHEP)

• You must hold a level 2 qualification in both English Language and Mathematics at Level 2 / GCSE (A*-C or 9-4) or equivalent, and;
• a level 6 qualification (Honours Degree; Third Class and above).

Please note that all candidates will be required to provide evidence that they hold the above qualifications during the recruitment and selection process, which will include providing copies of certificates.

The public expect that the police service only employs people with the highest levels of integrity, and expect those that work in Nottinghamshire Police to act and behave professionally at all times.

You will be required to provide personal details about yourself, your family members and co-residents, in order for vetting checks to be conducted.

See further information regarding the vetting process.

One of the most rigorous elements of our screening process is the physical fitness training. Our officers must be able to move quickly while carrying a lot of heavy equipment, so they need to be in pretty good shape.

If you pass the assessment process you will then have to take a physical fitness test. To pass this you will need to be reasonably fit, and able to run short distances fairly quickly.

You will also be required to pass a medical examination. Prior to your medical examination you will be required to provide information about your health, which will be verified by your own GP. 

Our Occupational Health team follow the national Recruitment Medical Standards, so you may wish to review this document prior to attending your medical examination. We will review suitability for role on an individual basis, following the medical guidance of our Occupational Health Screening Nurse and Force Medical Advisors.