Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA)
PCDA is a 3‑year professional degree apprenticeship. Upon successful completion you will achieve a Degree in Professional Policing Practice. This route allows you to earn while you learn and achieve a degree.
To apply you must have a Level 3 qualification (two A‑levels or equivalent). If you do not already possess a Level 3 qualification you will have the opportunity to undertake an online assessment in English and Maths. Successful applicants must have already achieved a GCSE Grade A‑C in Maths and English, or a Level 2 Equivalent. Where necessary, you will complete the Essential Skills qualification during training.
South Wales Police will cover all course fees for this entry route. The starting salary for both routes is £31,164.
Degree Holder Entry Programme (DHEP)
DHEP is for those who already hold a degree in any subject area. It is a two‑year programme combining on‑the‑job practical learning and academic study. Upon completion, successful candidates will also achieve a Diploma in Professional Policing Practice. Course fees are covered by the force.
Recruitment and Training
Initial training lasts six months covering relevant legislation, procedures, personal safety training, first aid and force computer systems. After training you will deploy to a uniformed response team on rotating shift patterns: days (0700–1700), afternoons (1500–2300 or until 0300 on Friday/Saturday) and nights (2200–0700) across seven days a week plus four rest days. Public holidays are included.
During the 2‑ or 3‑year probationary period you must evidence operational competence by dealing with a variety of police incidents and achieve the relevant policing academic qualification (280 hours of study per year). You will also need to complete examinations, assignments and a dissertation or research project.
All candidates must successfully achieve both the operational and academic elements to be retained past probation. You will be required to provide a valid manual driving licence.
Responsibilities
* Respond to community incidents on a rotating shift pattern across South Wales.
* Maintain operational competence through regular route work and training.
* Complete academic requirements as part of the apprenticeship or entry programme.
* Participate in fitness, biometric and eligibility tests as required.
Qualifications & Skills
* Level 3 qualification (2 A‑levels or equivalent) for PCDA; or a university degree for DHEP.
* GCSE Grade A‑C in Maths and English (or Level 2 Equivalent).
* Valid manual driving licence.
* Ability to perform fitness tests and biometric vetting.
Benefits
South Wales Police offers generous local government pension, police pension schemes, paid annual leave, flexible working and family‑friendly policies. Additional development opportunities and wellbeing schemes are available.
Equal Opportunity
South Wales Police encourages individuals from under‑represented groups to join so the workforce can reflect the communities served.
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