Policing

Modern Apprenticeship

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What's Policing like?

Do you want to make Scotland a safer place? If so, studying for a policing apprenticeship gives you the chance to be part of a sector that is focused on protecting people.   

What's the qualification?

SCQF Level 7

You'll gain a Modern Apprenticeship at SCQF Level 7. 

Your qualification includes:

  • Certificate in Policing at SCQF Level 7

SCQF qualification levels explained

What will I learn?

During your apprenticeship, you'll learn how to:   

  • Carry out operational safety training 

  • Adhere to Scottish criminal law and principles of evidence  

  • Protect local communities 

  • Look out for the health and wellbeing of fellow police officers 

  • Conduct systematic searches 

  • Carry out road policing   

You will develop the following core skills:    

  • Communication  

  • Problem-solving  

  • Teamwork  

  • Time management    

These transferrable skills are useful for working in other jobs such as investigation analysis and surveillance.  

Where could it take me?

This Modern Apprenticeship gives you a variety of career options within the Police to consider. Carry on your studies with a civil service-related degree or find a full-time job in the policing industry.   

Further education: Continue to improve your legal knowledge by studying for a bachelor’s degree in policing. Your experience will support your university application.   

Straight to work: Use your qualifications and find a policing job. After completing the apprenticeship, you could move onto jobs like:   

  • Police constable 

  • Investigations analyst 

  • Dog handler 

  • Authorised firearms officer 

  • Roads police officer 

  • Civilian police investigator 

  • Police vehicle technician 

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Entry requirements

Due to the nature of the role, you will need to be 18 to apply for a policing apprenticeship. There is a rigorous recruitment process that involves a high level of physical and mental fitness. To be eligible for the apprenticeship you must:  

  • Have a body mass index between 18 – 30 and meet mandatory national eyesight standards 

  • Be mentally capable of carrying out policing duties   

The application process involves a Standard Entrance Test (SET), interview, assessment day and fitness assessment.  

How does it work?

You’ll learn in a real-world environment and earn a wage. You’ll also study with a college or another learning provider. 

How long will it take?

This Modern Apprenticeship will take two years to complete.   

How to apply

Use the 'Find vacancies near you' search at the end of this page to look for vacancies, then you can apply online.

You'll apply on Apprenticeships.scot or the company’s own website – there are details on the vacancy advert.

Find vacancies near you