Degree Holder Entry Programme first cohort graduates
The first cohort of the Degree Holder Entry Programme (DHEP) for policing has graduated from the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) ready to serve in Cumbria Constabulary.
The 16 new officers are amongst the first to graduate from this innovative new programme, which is specifically for people who already hold a bachelor’s degree and want train as a police officer.
The DHEP route is one of three new entry routes into policing in line with the new Police Education Qualifications Framework (PEQF).
Lee Clark, a DHEP first cohort graduate from Cumbria Constabulary, said: “After a full and challenging career in telecommunications I embarked on a new and exciting chapter in 2020.
“The tutors at the University were very knowledgeable and hugely supportive throughout the course. As well as studying over the past two years, I also worked on shifts in a very busy work environment as a police response officer. This did present additional challenges, but I was very well supported through the process by my fellow colleagues, support staff and the University.
"I now feel that I have a firm foundation to build on within my new career in policing."
— Lee Clark, a DHEP first cohort graduate from Cumbria Constabulary
“I now feel that I have a firm foundation to build on within my new career in policing.”
Clive Tattum, Principal Lecturer for the PEQF, said: “All of these recruits after an initial period in their first year were involved in frontline policing as they simultaneously completed the programme’s tough operational and academic requirements. Currently the staff we are educating account for around 20% of the frontline police officers in Cumbria. UCLan’s contribution to first class public service is vital.”
Temporary Chief Inspector Charlotte Nutter, Cumbria Constabulary, said: “We are delighted to see our first cohort of officers from the Degree Holder Entry Programme route graduate from their diploma course.
"These officers should feel pride in what they have achieved so far in securing their diplomas whilst simultaneously carrying out uniformed policing roles, which benefit our communities. "
— Temporary Chief Inspector Charlotte Nutter, Cumbria Constabulary
“These officers should feel pride in what they have achieved so far in securing their diplomas whilst simultaneously carrying out uniformed policing roles, which benefit our communities.
“They will now continue their work in keeping people safe across Cumbria.
“I would like to encourage anyone who sees or reads this to consider if they themselves could help us make a positive difference to people in our county. There are currently a number of entry routes available for candidates with and without university degrees.
“Policing is a career like no other and if you are enthusiastic, dedicated and want to be part of one, big, inclusive team where you’ll make a difference every day, then I would strongly encourage you to consider joining us.”
"We are looking forward to developing our partnerships even further in order to build the trust and confidence of the public by ensuring they receive an outstanding service from their police officers."
— Head of the UCLan School of Justice Vivienne Ivins
Head of the UCLan School of Justice Vivienne Ivins added: “It was fantastic to deliver this innovative new Degree Holder Entry programme and now to see the first students celebrating their well-earned graduation.
"UCLan has been a leader in the design and delivery of policing programmes within the higher education sector for the last 18 years and we are already successfully delivering the College of Policing nationally accredited PCDA and DHEP programmes across three forces in the in the North West Region.
"The step change within Policing Education Qualifications Framework from police training to the higher education experience is a really exciting time for all involved. We are looking forward to developing our partnerships even further in order to build the trust and confidence of the public by ensuring they receive an outstanding service from their police officers.”
