Quickly exit this site by pressing the Escape key Leave this site
We use some essential cookies to make our website work. We’d like to set additional cookies so we can remember your preferences and understand how you use our site.
You can manage your preferences and cookie settings at any time by clicking on “Customise Cookies” below. For more information on how we use cookies, please see our Cookies notice.
Your cookie preferences have been saved. You can update your cookie settings at any time on the cookies page.
Your cookie preferences have been saved. You can update your cookie settings at any time on the cookies page.
Sorry, there was a technical problem. Please try again.
This site is a beta, which means it's a work in progress and we'll be adding more to it over the next few weeks. Your feedback helps us make things better, so please let us know what you think.
If you do not hold the relevant qualifications or experience, do not let this deter you in becoming a police officer. Please find some guidance below to support you in obtaining the qualifications or support you need.
Level 2 Qualifications
It is a requirement for all apprenticeship applicants to have ESFA (Education and Skills Funding Agency) approved Level 2 maths and English qualifications before the start of the course.
Level 2 Functional Skills qualifications are recognised as a GCSE equivalent, and are accepted by the ESFA to meet degree apprenticeship requirements. Functional Skills in English and/or maths are available through some further education colleges or adult education providers and can be researched locally.
Alternatively, they can be taken with online providers, such as learndirect.com
Depending on the Level 2 provider, you may be required to undertake a diagnostic test to determine your current level and whether you need to follow a course of learning, or if you are already at the right level to take the exam. There may be a cost involved for the course and/or the exam.
It is important that you ensure the qualification is Functional Skills Level 2.
Level 3 Qualifications
It is a requirement for apprenticeship applicants to have approved Level 3 qualifications, which equate to 32 or more UCAS points. You may find it useful to follow this link to the UCAS tariff point calculator. If your equivalency is a Level 3 not listed within the calculator then Anglia Ruskin will be able to determine your points.
Points can be accrued through various Level 3 qualification types which include; A Levels, NVQ Level 3 and BTECs. If you are unsure on which qualifications equate to which level please consult the following government site: GOV.UK - what different qualifications mean
Should you wish to undertake Level 3 qualifications there are a number of providers including:
Or you can research your further education local colleges who are likely to provide the courses you require. All courses you embark on will be at your own expense.