At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our National Graduate Programme to become a detective and support victims of crime.
- Company: Be part of a transformative policing initiative that shapes communities and builds trust.
- Benefits: Enjoy a starting salary of £29,907, flexible shifts, and generous leave options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in society while developing leadership skills and joining a supportive network.
- Qualifications: Open to graduates from any degree; no prior experience needed.
- Other info: Complete a 13-week training academy and secure a permanent role as a police detective.
The predicted salary is between 24900 - 35000 £ per year.
For every ambition, every action, every change. If you are ready to step into a role where your decisions shape real lives and communities, this is where your journey begins. Our two-year programme is designed to develop diverse graduates, from any degree, who want to build trust and solve crime as detectives.
The role of a Police Detective: On our National Graduate Programme, you’ll specialise as a detective and be the most critical support for victims of crime. What you choose to do, working with policing with dedicated colleagues to change it from within, will affect lives and improve perceptions for generations to come. The challenge is great, and so is the need for talented graduates to step up to protect society’s most vulnerable.
Our programme gives you the opportunity to make our society better by developing skills to become a future leader in society. Your salary is paid from day one when you start our training academy. Our programme prepares you to investigate crime, protect victims, and bring offenders to justice. There is no greater feeling than seeing the work you do impact someone’s life for the better.
Training and development: Our award-winning training sets the foundation for a successful and transformative career in policing. Throughout the 13-week residential training academy, you’ll have access to a Performance and Development Coach who will support you to navigate a new career and maximise your potential.
Career progression: Once you successfully complete the programme, you will be a fully warranted police detective with a permanent role in policing. You’ll also join our Police Now alumni network. Many of our graduates have gone on to be promoted or have explored other areas of policing.
Rewards and benefits:
- Salary: Your salary will start on day one of your training academy. You will receive a starting salary of £29,907. Your salary will increase each year up to £48,231 within seven years. On promotion to the next police rank, sergeant, you can earn a starting salary of £51,408.
- Leave: You’ll start with 22 days per year (on top of public holidays), rising to 30 days depending on your length of service. You can also expect other forms of leave including adoption, maternity and paternity.
- Work-life balance: This is not your typical 9-5. Police officers work varied shift patterns which gives them flexibility and freedom to maximise their time outside of work. Different to your typical working week, you’ll often receive several days off in a row. It may take some time to adapt to shift pattern working, but once you do, you may find that the flexibility of the schedule allows you to better balance work and home life.
- Pension: You’ll automatically be enrolled as a member of the Police Pension Scheme 2015, which awards police officers for their dedication and service to the public. It offers a generous and secure retirement package, providing officers with financial stability and peace of mind.
- Financial services discounts: There are various partner organisations who work alongside the police to offer a variety of financial services including saving, investment and protection products, as well as discounts and subsidies. Many major high street stores, retail outlets and other national organisations offer discounts and special deals to police officers. Most police forces also provide access to a number of subsidised leisure and sporting activities.
Contact Detail:
Police Now Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land National Graduate Programme – Detective
✨Tip Number 1
Research the role of a police detective thoroughly. Understand the skills and qualities that are essential for this position, such as empathy, problem-solving, and communication. This knowledge will help you articulate your passion and suitability during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former police detectives to gain insights into their experiences. Attend relevant events or join online forums where you can ask questions and learn more about the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges they face.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational judgement tests or assessments that may be part of the selection process. Familiarise yourself with common scenarios that detectives encounter and think about how you would respond to them, demonstrating your critical thinking and ethical decision-making.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase any relevant volunteer work or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your commitment to community service and public safety. Highlighting these experiences can set you apart from other candidates and show your dedication to making a positive impact.
We think you need these skills to ace National Graduate Programme – Detective
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of a Police Detective. Familiarise yourself with the skills required and how your background can contribute to this role.
Tailor Your CV: Craft your CV to highlight relevant experiences, skills, and achievements that align with the detective role. Emphasise any problem-solving, teamwork, or leadership experiences that demonstrate your suitability for the position.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should express your passion for policing and your desire to make a difference in the community. Use specific examples from your past that showcase your commitment to helping others and your ability to handle challenging situations.
Prepare for Assessment: Be ready for potential assessments or interviews by practising common questions related to policing and your motivations for becoming a detective. Reflect on scenarios where you've demonstrated key competencies such as integrity, resilience, and empathy.
How to prepare for a job interview at Police Now
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of what being a detective entails. Research the responsibilities, challenges, and the impact detectives have on communities. This will help you articulate your motivation for applying and how you can contribute.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Think about the skills you've developed through your degree or previous experiences that are relevant to policing. Highlight your problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and any experience working in challenging situations. Be ready to provide examples.
✨Demonstrate Empathy
As a detective, you'll be supporting victims of crime. During the interview, express your understanding of the importance of empathy and compassion in this role. Share any experiences where you've had to show understanding and support to others.
✨Prepare Questions
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions about the programme, training, and career progression. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.