At a Glance
- Tasks: Be the friendly face of neighbourhood policing, making communities safer and stronger.
- Company: Join Thames Valley Police, a supportive organisation dedicated to community safety.
- Benefits: Enjoy 24 days annual leave, flexible working, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Comprehensive training and wellbeing support to help you thrive.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while gaining a Level 4 Diploma.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, with GCSE English or equivalent; no upper age limit.
The predicted salary is between 33899 - 33899 £ per year.
Applications are invited to join us as a Police Community Support Officer (PCSO), which provides you with an opportunity to earn while gaining a Level 4 Diploma in Community Policing Practice through on-the-job learning. PCSOs play an integral part in neighbourhood policing; providing a visible presence on the streets, making communities safer and stronger. You will be confident, resilient and comfortable dealing with all sections of the community with the ability to make decisions and work with partners to solve problems. A positive character with a professional approach, you act with integrity and treat individuals with respect.
Entry Requirements
- Age 17 at date of application, must be 18 upon appointment – no upper age limit
- English Language or Literature at GCSE grade 9-4 or equivalent (e.g. Grade A-C GCSE / O Level or Level 2 Functional Skill).
- For over 19s, maths GCSE grades 9-4/A-C or equivalent no longer required.
- For under 19s (if GCSE grade 9-4 not already held at time of starting apprenticeship), need to attain maths Functional Skill level 2. Will be supported by TVP.
- Be a British, EC / EEA or Commonwealth citizen or a foreign national with indefinite leave to remain.
- Be in good health and able to physically and mentally perform your duties, having the ability to successfully complete the job-related fitness test.
- Full UK Driving Licence (you can still apply if you are currently learning to drive and plan to take your test in the next 3 to 6 months however you won’t be able to join an intake until you have passed your test).
Training
- Ten weeks’ training at our Force Training Centre in Sulhamstead, designed to give you a solid understanding in the essentials of a PCSO's role and powers.
- Ten weeks’ tutoring on your Local Police Area (LPA).
- On and off the job learning over the course of one year to enable you to achieve the Level 4 Diploma in Community Policing Practice.
Successful candidates will go into a recruitment pool to fill planned PCSO intakes in financial year 2026/27, subject to posting choices and vacancies. Please read all the attached document, including the Staff self-assessment questionnaire and the PCSO application advice, before submitting your application.
As part of the Thames Valley Police family you will enjoy a fantastic range of benefits including 24 days annual leave per annum pro-rata for part time (plus Bank Holidays), flexible working conditions, a wide range of lifestyle discounts, career development opportunities and have the option to join a local government pension scheme.
If you have any queries please contact the Recruitment Department via RecruitmentPCSO@thamesvalley.police.uk quoting reference 14855. We will endeavour to respond to your query as quickly as possible.
Closing date: 14 June 2026
At Thames Valley Police (TVP) we work together to protect our communities. Whether as an officer, staff member or volunteer, you will make a difference and play an important role in helping achieve our mission. As you take on a role with pride and confidence, you will be supported, developed and valued, ensuring you can be at your best in the service of our communities.
Working Smart
You will be joining an organisation that strives to improve every day. In the post-pandemic era this means changing the way we work and deliver our services, which brings a number of benefits including a more flexible and capable workforce.
Supporting You
Your wellbeing and safety is at the heart of all we do. Whilst you are doing the work that matters, we’ll be supporting you via a wide range of Wellbeing services, partnerships and initiatives. We have a number of active staff support networks and buddy schemes which you will have access to and can be involved with. We are committed to building a workforce that better reflects the communities we serve and an inclusive culture that not only values, but finds strength in difference.
Developing You
We promote a culture where your continuous professional development and learning is actively encouraged and where people have the opportunity, and responsibility, to achieve their full potential.
Vetting
All posts require a level of Police Vetting as per the National Vetting Code of Practice. The residency requirement is necessary to enable all applicants to be checked in an equitable manner. Thames Valley Police will allow applicants to apply who do not necessarily reach the criteria as long as they have proven UK residency and supporting evidence where necessary. Applications will be considered on a case by case basis.
Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) - Windsor and Slough employer: Thames Valley Police
Thames Valley Police is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises the wellbeing and professional development of its staff. As a Police Community Support Officer in Windsor and Slough, you will benefit from flexible working conditions, a comprehensive range of benefits including a local government pension scheme, and the opportunity to earn a Level 4 Diploma in Community Policing Practice while making a meaningful impact in your community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) - Windsor and Slough
✨Connect with Your Local Council
Don’t underestimate the power of local councils for traineeships in the government and public sector. Pop down to your local council office and ask about any upcoming trainee programmes—they usually have insights on what's available in your area!
✨Join Public Sector Networking Events
Get involved with networking events that focus on the public sector. These gatherings are golden opportunities to meet potential employers and current trainees who can shed light on hidden opportunities and the application process. Keep an eye on Eventbrite or local community boards!
✨Utilise University Career Services
If you’re at university, make sure to use your career services! They often have direct connections with government agencies and can help you find trainee roles specifically aimed at students. Plus, they host workshops that can prepare you for the application process.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you see a role at Thames Valley Police that interests you, don’t just save it for later—apply directly through our website. Clearly highlighting your enthusiasm for public service in your application can give you an edge. We’re here rooting for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) - Windsor and Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Enthusiasm for Public Service:When applying for a role in the government-public-sector like Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) - Windsor and Slough, it's crucial to express your passion for public service. Make sure your cover letter highlights why you want to contribute to the community and any relevant experiences that show your commitment to making a difference.
Tailor Your CV for the Public Sector:Your CV should reflect a genuine understanding of the public sector's values and skills. Emphasise any volunteer work, internships, or relevant coursework that demonstrates your ability to navigate policies, regulations, or community engagement. This shows that you're not just looking for any job, but that you're dedicated to this specific field.
Highlight Your Skills in Research and Analysis:In the government-public-sector, research and analytical skills are key. So, include examples in your application that show you can gather, evaluate, and interpret data. This could be a project from university, an internship task, or even relevant coursework; just make it crystal clear that you’ve got what it takes to make informed decisions.
Be Clear About Your Learning Goals:As a trainee, it’s important to show that you're eager to learn and grow. In your cover letter, mention specific skills or knowledge you hope to gain through the Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) - Windsor and Slough position at Thames Valley Police. This demonstrates your long-term commitment and desire to develop in the public sector.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thames Valley Police
✨Know the Public Sector Landscape
Familiarise yourself with key government policies and how they impact public services. Since you’re aiming for a trainee role, being able to discuss recent initiatives or reforms shows you’re engaged and aware of the sector’s challenges and opportunities.
✨Highlight Your Drive to Serve
In public sector interviews like this one, they’re really interested in your motivation. Make sure you can articulate why you want to serve the community and how your values align with the mission of Thames Valley Police. They’ll be looking for that passion!
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
You’ll likely face scenario questions about dealing with citizens or managing projects. Think through examples where you demonstrated teamwork, problem-solving, or resilience in a community project or voluntary role. Use the STAR technique to structure your answers.
✨Emphasise Your Willingness to Learn
As a trainee, your ability and eagerness to learn are crucial. Be ready to discuss how you've embraced new experiences in the past, whether through studies or work placements. Illustrate your adaptability and readiness for mentorship in the role at Thames Valley Police.
