At a Glance
- Tasks: Be the first voice of help for our communities, managing police calls and resources.
- Company: Join a dedicated police force committed to community safety and support.
- Benefits: Comprehensive training, career progression, and a nationally recognised qualification.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing valuable skills.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; just bring common sense, resilience, and good communication skills.
- Other info: Dynamic role with structured training and opportunities for personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
Full time vacancies. As a Police Controller, you will help protect our communities by being the first voice they hear when they call for help and assistance. You do not need previous experience – we’ll give you all the training and support to be ready to take that call. But we do ask that you have common sense, a calm head under pressure, high levels of resilience, an ability to make decisions under pressure, attention to detail combined with good communication skills and experience of using IT systems.
You will be managing and controlling police radio transmissions, prioritising multiple live incidents, deploying police resources and ensuring public and police officer safety. You will need to prioritise incidents, identifying the risk, threat and vulnerability within the situation and grade the incident correctly to ensure the right and timely police response. You need to be ready for the unexpected, with an ability to make key decisions whilst taking information from a caller. The calls you handle will be varied; you could go from dealing with a non-urgent 101 enquiry to a distressing 999 emergency and sadly you might even receive abuse from someone you are trying to help. It is undoubtedly one of the most demanding yet rewarding roles in modern policing.
If you can demonstrate these skills and have the drive and determination to make a difference to the communities we serve, then this could be the career for you.
For more detailed information on the role, including first‑hand insight from those in the position, important information on shifts and requirements of the role, and importantly the benefits we can offer, please click here.
To apply for this post please attach a CV. Please note the next stage of this application process is a mandatory awareness session, these will start taking place after the advert closes. Please see the below dates:
- Tuesday 2nd December 2025 at 18:00 until 19:00
- Thursday 4th December 2025 at 18:00 until 19:00
- Thursday 11th December 2025 at 18:00 until 19:00
Please be aware all candidates must complete a 5‑week course at full time, this course is likely to take place at Kidlington and whilst we will endeavour to supply assistance in arranging your transport we cannot guarantee this, and there is an expectation for you to ensure you can attend when applying. Given this we will be advertising on a rolling recruitment basis, and should you be successful you will be placed into a recruitment pool. Once vetting and medical clearances have been received you will be placed into the next available intake, which will be starting in early 2026.
You will receive structured on and off the job training through our comprehensive apprenticeship programme. On successful completion of the programme, you will be confirmed in post and receive a nationally recognised Level 3 Certificate in Emergency Service Contact Handling.
The closing date for enquiries and receipt of completed applications is 30th November 2025 (subject to change).
We believe in investing in all of our people and run tailored Positive Action Initiatives to support our colleagues from underrepresented backgrounds in their personal and professional development, ensuring everyone has a level playing field to succeed, progress and feel fulfilled in their careers.
Trainee Police Controller: Abingdon (999/101 Call Handler) employer: Thames Valley Police
Contact Detail:
Thames Valley Police Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Police Controller: Abingdon (999/101 Call Handler)
✨Tip Number 1
Get familiar with the role! Dive into what being a Police Controller really means. Understand the skills needed, like decision-making under pressure and communication. This will help you shine in interviews!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your calmness! Since you'll be handling emergency calls, try role-playing scenarios with friends or family. This will help you stay cool when it counts and show that you can handle the heat.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current Police Controllers! Reach out on social media or forums to get insights about their experiences. They might share tips that could give you an edge during the application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and upcoming awareness sessions right there!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Police Controller: Abingdon (999/101 Call Handler)
How to prepare for a job interview at Thames Valley Police
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand what being a Police Controller entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, such as managing police radio transmissions and prioritising incidents. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Stay Calm and Collected
Given the nature of the job, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to remain calm under pressure. During the interview, think of examples from your past where you've had to make quick decisions or handle stressful situations. This will showcase your resilience and decision-making skills.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a call handler, effective communication is key. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely during the interview. You might even want to do a mock interview with a friend to refine your responses and ensure you can convey your ideas effectively.
✨Be Ready for the Unexpected
Interviews can sometimes throw curveballs your way, just like the job itself. Prepare for unexpected questions by thinking about how you would handle various scenarios related to the role. This will not only help you think on your feet but also demonstrate your readiness for the challenges ahead.