A degree of recognition across policing: embedding a degree apprenticeship encompassing work-based research

Abstract

PurposeAs the police service across England and Wales moves towards degree-level study for new recruits as a component of recognising the profession of policing, this paper describes and discusses the introduction of the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) and the core skills of evidence-based policing (EBP) as an educational theme for solving work-based problems.Design/methodology/approachAuthored by both policing practitioners and researchers, this paper refers to key literature whilst exploring the implementation of the PCDA as a component of a Policing Education Qualifications Framework (PEQF). It highlights some of the challenges faced with its implementation along with the benefits of the adopting this degree-level education and work-based programme where EBP is embedded in to both study and professional practice.FindingsThere are significant benefits to the police service of adopting the PCDA as one of the entry routes for new police constables and embracing the educational development and professional application of EBP. However, this does not come without a number of challenges for the service and the professional body for policing.Originality/valueThis paper, co-authored by both policing practitioners and researchers, provides a contemporary view on the introduction of the PCDA as an initial entry route for new police constables and the embedding of EBP within both their learning and professional practice. As the first graduates complete their studies, the paper discusses the opportunities the adoption presents and the challenges it faces both locally and nationally.

Degree apprenticeships in the UK higher education institutions – are they viable?: Integrative literature review

“…Apprenticeship programme design seeks to develop practice-based pedagogical curricula for the workplace, minimising the gap between classroom and workplace (Konststaninou and Miller, 2021). WIL has benefits, although there are references within forums that it is challenging (Pepper et al. , 2020a, b).…”

Integrating higher degree education with practice: exploring the value proposition of executive MBA apprenticeships

“…This prompted a stream of research on the benefits and limitations of work-based practice, as well their challenges, opportunities and sustainability (for example, Bravenboer and Lester, 2016; Saraswat, 2016; Hughes and Saiva, 2019; Mulkeen et al. , 2019; Konstantinou and Miller, 2020; Lester, 2020; Lillis and Bravenboer, 2020; Pepper et al. , 2022).…”

“…Previous research has focused on degree apprenticeships as an alternative to conventional full-time degree models of higher education (Saraswat, 2016). This prompted a stream of research on the benefits and limitations of work-based practice, as well their challenges, opportunities and sustainability (for example, Bravenboer and Lester, 2016;Saraswat, 2016;Hughes and Saiva, 2019;Mulkeen et al, 2019;Konstantinou and Miller, 2020;Lester, 2020;Lillis and Bravenboer, 2020;Pepper et al, 2022). However, there is little research at senior leaders' level that examines whether the value proposition perceived by the respective tripartite stakeholders associated with HDAs (apprentices, employers and HEIs) is conceptualised in the same way.…”

Evidence-based policing for crime prevention in England and Wales: perception and use by new police recruits

“…Those studying any of the initial entry routes to policing develop subject specific knowledge and understanding across a range of policing disciplines including the roles and responsibilities of those involved in response, community and roads policing, information and intelligence, along with the conduct of investigations. One of the key themes throughout the study for the initial entry routes to policing, whether employed as a police constable or aspiring to be so, are the benefits to policing of adopting an evidence-based research approach, such as strategically enhancing a national body of quality, ethically approved and evidence informed professional practice, whilst at the individual level enhancing the confidence of new constables in making the best possible evidence informed decisions (Pepper et al 2021 ).…”