First Counter Terrorism Officers Complete Police Now’s Academy

In a significant achievement for Police Now, 227 trainee detective constables have successfully completed the organisation’s intensive National Detective Programme academy.

This group, the largest ever to complete the academy, includes for the first time a stream of officers joining Counter Terrorism Policing.

Intensive Training and Diverse Recruits

Over the past 13 weeks, these officers have undergone rigorous training in core policing and investigative skills at the national, residential academy. Now, they will join various police forces across England and Wales to continue the two-year programme aimed at developing resilient frontline detectives. These new detectives will support victims of crime, enhance public trust, and investigate complex cases within Criminal Investigation Departments.

The officers will be stationed across several police forces, including Devon and Cornwall Police, Gwent Police, Hertfordshire Police, Humberside Police, the Metropolitan Police Service, Staffordshire Police, Thames Valley Police, West Mercia Police, and Wiltshire Police.

Pioneering Counter Terrorism Policing Stream

Notably, 75 officers recruited to the Metropolitan Police Service are the first to join Police Now’s pilot Counter Terrorism Policing stream. In their second year, these officers will receive specialised training to protect the UK from serious threats by preventing, deterring, and investigating terrorist activities.

Leadership and Encouragement

Millie Tanner, Head of the National Detective Programme at Police Now, addressed the officers at their closing ceremony. She praised their achievement and urged them to “show up, physically and mentally, put the work in, support your colleagues and allow them to support you.”

A Reflection of Diverse Communities

As a Times Top 100 Graduate Employer, Police Now is committed to diversifying the police force. Of the current cohort, 67% identify as female, 15% are from Black, Asian, or minority ethnic backgrounds, 71% had not considered a policing career before learning about Police Now, and 27 languages are spoken across the group. For those in the Counter Terrorism Policing stream, 60% are female and 24% are from minority ethnic backgrounds.

Trainees Share Their Experiences

Lydia Davies, a trainee detective constable who will join Devon and Cornwall Police, described the transition to police officer as “challenging but rewarding,” highlighting the importance of developing an investigative mindset to support society’s most vulnerable. “I particularly enjoyed learning from leading officers in their fields from across the country,” Lydia said.

Bethany O’driscoll, who will join Humberside Police, shared her motivation for applying through Police Now. “I wanted to be challenged and gain new skills. Police Now have been great throughout the entire process, and I have loved every minute of the academy,” Bethany remarked. She expressed excitement about making a real difference in communities and applying the invaluable skills she has learned.

This landmark graduation marks a significant step in the evolution of policing in the UK, with a focus on diversity, specialised training, and a commitment to community service.