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: Receive comprehensive training, a nationally recognised qualification, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy structured training and support, with a focus on personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing valuable skills in a rewarding role.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just bring common sense, resilience, and good communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 28000 € 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 dates below; if you’re unable to attend one of these please contact recruitment ASAP:
- Monday 1st June 2026 at 18:00 - 19:30
- Wednesday 3rd June 2026 at 18:00 - 19:30
- Thursday 4th June 2026 at 18:00 - 19:30
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 Monday 25th May 2026 (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
As a Trainee Police Controller in Abingdon, you will join a dedicated team committed to safeguarding our communities. We offer comprehensive training and support, ensuring you are well-prepared for the challenges of the role while fostering a culture of resilience and teamwork. With opportunities for personal and professional growth, including a nationally recognised qualification upon completion of your apprenticeship, we are an employer that values diversity and invests in the development of all our staff.
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 involves. Understanding the ins and outs of handling calls, prioritising incidents, and managing police resources will give you a leg up during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be the first voice people hear in emergencies, being calm and clear is key. Try role-playing scenarios with friends or family to get comfortable with different types of calls.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your resilience! Think of examples from your past where you've handled pressure well. Whether it’s a tough job or a challenging situation, having stories ready will help you shine in interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on those mandatory awareness sessions – attending one is crucial for moving forward in the process!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Police Controller: Abingdon (999/101 Call Handler)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Communication Skills:When writing your application, make sure to highlight your communication skills. We want to see how you can convey information clearly and effectively, as this is crucial for a Police Controller role.
Demonstrate Resilience:Share examples of how you've handled pressure in the past. We’re looking for candidates who can keep a calm head and make decisions when things get tough, so don’t be shy about showcasing your resilience!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight any relevant experience or skills that align with the job description. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their background to what we’re looking for.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thames Valley Police
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you 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 stay 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 Police Controller, effective communication is key. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely during the interview. You might even want to prepare a few scenarios where you successfully communicated in challenging situations, as this will highlight your suitability for the role.
✨Be Ready for the Unexpected
Interviews can sometimes throw curveballs, just like the job itself. Prepare for unexpected questions or scenarios that test your problem-solving abilities. This will not only help you think on your feet but also demonstrate your readiness for the unpredictable nature of the role.
