Police officers in the UK play a vital role in maintaining law and order, protecting the public, and preventing crime. Their work involves patrolling neighbourhoods, responding to emergencies, investigating crimes, gathering evidence, and providing support to victims. Officers may be called upon to make arrests, prepare cases for court, and work closely with local communities to build trust and prevent crime. The role can be challenging and sometimes dangerous, requiring good judgement, communication skills, and resilience. Police officers work shifts, including nights and weekends, and often need to deal with difficult or sensitive situations. There are opportunities to specialise in areas such as detective work, dog handling, or firearms, and for career progression into supervisory or leadership roles.
Starting salaries for police officers in the UK range from £21,000 to £24,000 per year, depending on location and force.
Experienced officers can earn between £36,000 and £41,000 annually, with further allowances and overtime possible.
As of March 2023, there were around 147,000 police officers and staff in the UK.
Works with specially trained police dogs to help track suspects, find drugs or explosives, and search for missing people.
Focuses on enforcing traffic laws, investigating road accidents, and ensuring road safety for the public.
Works closely with local communities to prevent crime, provide reassurance, and support neighbourhood policing teams.
Learn about the responsibilities and daily life of a police officer.
Read up on what police officers do, the environments they work in, and the different specialisms within the police. Consider visiting your local police station or attending a police open day to ask questions and see police work first-hand. Try to speak to current officers to gain personal insights.
Check that you meet the eligibility criteria to apply.
You must be at least 18 years old, have the right to live and work in the UK, and meet certain health and fitness standards. You will also need to pass background and security checks. It is important to ensure you have a clean criminal record, as this will be checked during the recruitment process.
Make sure you have the necessary qualifications to apply.
Most forces require at least a Level 3 qualification, such as A-levels or an equivalent, although some may accept applicants with relevant work experience. Good GCSEs, especially in English and Maths, are also important. Some applicants may choose to study for a policing degree or join via an apprenticeship.
Build skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Consider joining extracurricular activities, volunteering, or taking part in schemes like the Police Cadets. These opportunities help you demonstrate essential skills like leadership, resilience, and empathy, which are highly valued in policing.
Submit your application to a police force.
Most applications are submitted online through the force's website. You will need to complete an application form and may be asked to complete online assessments. Be prepared to provide references and evidence of your qualifications.
Take part in interviews, written tests, and assessment centres.
The selection process usually involves a combination of interviews, situational judgement tests, physical fitness assessments, and group exercises. You will be assessed on your suitability for the role and your ability to handle real-life scenarios.
Undergo initial police training if accepted.
New recruits take part in an initial training programme, which may last several months. Training covers everything from the law and police procedures to first aid and physical fitness. Once you complete training, you will be assigned to a team and begin your probationary period as a police constable.
Please note that this may not be a comprehensive list of available apprenticeships. To view a more complete collection, visit the Find an apprenticeship service.
Click on any card to be redirected to their vacancy page.
Royal Navy
( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 558 positions available )
Could you become part of the world’s most elite amphibious force and wear the coveted green beret? It’s not for everybody, that’s for sure. Digging deep to aim high, you’ll stop for nothing. In the most hostile environments, and on the most treacherous terrain.
Closing date: in 8 months
Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026
Royal Navy
( Added 04 Jun 2024 - 20 positions available )
Being a Intelligence Analyst means you’re vital to the Royal Navy's intelligence gathering operation. The go-to for information that shapes the operational decision-making process. Your insight will transform raw data into an indispensable analysis of the situation. You’ll also use your keen eye for detail to prepare briefings for senior officers.
Closing date: in 8 months
Possible start date: 02 Jun 2026
This page showcases various career options and the pathways to reach them. Each career listed here shares transferable skills and knowledge, making it easier for individuals to transition between them.
Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.
Remember, progressing in your career often involves further learning and training. This page provides insights into future career options as well as those that can lead up to your current one.
These career progression decisions are informed by comparing the skills and knowledge needed for different occupations, along with data on how people move between them. Explore the possibilities and discover the exciting journey ahead in your career!
Both Police Officers and Army officers hold positions of authority, responsibility, and leadership within disciplined services. They require similar qualifications in terms of leadership skills, decision-making, and often some comparable training related to security, discipline, and enforcement.
You could get into this job through:
You can do a degree course before you apply for officer training although it's not essential.
Most subjects are acceptable.
You can also apply for an army officer internship before, during or after university. This gives you the chance to learn about the officer role and whether it's something you want to do.
You'll usually need:
You could work towards becoming an officer by doing a college course, for example in public services or A levels. You would then apply to the army for officer training.
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
You could start your army career by doing an HM Forces Serviceperson Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeship.
You would apply directly to the army to find the best apprenticeship route for you.
To do this apprenticeship, you'll need:
You can join the Army Reserve as a part-time officer to get some experience of what life is like in the regular army. You'll also learn new skills at the same time.
You'll need to:
If you're between 12 and 18 years old, you can join the Army Cadet Force.
You can apply directly for officer training.
You'll need to:
You'll also usually need a minimum of:
You'll be invited to talk to someone at your local army careers centre about the opportunities available. You'll then attend a 2-part assessment, which includes medical and fitness tests.
If you're accepted, you'll move onto formal officer training at the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst in Surrey.
You'll find more information about becoming an army officer from Army Careers.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
Address
Developing Experts Limited
Exchange Street Buildings
35-37 Exchange Street
Norwich
NR2 1DP
UK
Phone
01603 273515
Email
[email protected]
Copyright 2025 Developing Experts, All rights reserved.
Unlock expert-designed lessons, resources, and assessments tailored for educators. No credit card required.
Claim Your Free Trial →
