Student officers celebrate as they graduate from university

The first cohort of student police officers are celebrating after graduating from Staffordshire University last week.

In total 33 West Mercia student officers graduated on Tuesday (22 November) after completing their degrees in professional policing under the Degree Holders Entry Programme (DHEP).

The ceremony took place at the force’s headquarters in Hindlip, Worcester.

The officers began their studies in July 2020 and, following immense challenges of being the first cohort of PEQF students, as well as undertaking their studies during the Covid pandemic, all 33 have been able to gain either a merit or distinction.

Following the graduation ceremony, the officers will now go on to serve as fully qualified police constables in response, neighbourhood policing or in specialist investigation teams.

Deputy Chief Constable for West Mercia Police, Alex Murray, said: “Being a police officer is a true vocation, and I know from my own personal experience that these newly qualified officers are about to embark on a rewarding career like no other.

“Starting a career in the police can be one of the best things you’ll ever do, and these officers will now be able to make a real difference in their communities, reducing crimes and making people safer. We wish them all the best and thank them for their commitment. 

"We also thank their families for the huge support they will give to these officers through their incredible careers.”

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion, added: “I am proud to see the first cohort of student West Mercia police officers graduate from Staffordshire University.

“It is a very exciting time to be joining West Mercia Police. These new officers are at the start of their careers with many opportunities that can take them in a multitude of different directions in keeping the communities of West Mercia safe.

“I know as commissioner and as a community we are proud of our police service and wish them luck in their careers with West Mercia Police.”

The DHEP is a mixture of classroom based and online learning with practical on-the-job policing experience, rotating in response, Safer Neighbourhood Teams and investigation. The force works in partnership with Staffordshire University to deliver the programme under licence from the College of Policing.

For more information about the programme, or how you could start your career with West Mercia Police visit our careers pages.

Issued by RJ, Corporate Communications