The seminar on Wednesday [11 September], spearheaded by Professional Development lead Paul Matthews, emphasised on the importance of transforming existing skills and training into formal qualifications.

With policing being a field that encompasses numerous specialisations, gaining accreditation for experience and skills is essential. The Professional Development seminar included two Q&A sessions and saw a high number of attendees take part in it.

Mr Matthews stressed that while a degree in policing is not mandatory, the level of training and work police officers undertake certainly merits recognition through formal qualifications.

Sir Andy Marsh, CEO of the College of Policing, opened the seminar by discussing why accreditation is crucial. He argued formal qualifications serve as a vital tool for recognising the extensive training and experience officers accumulate over the course of their careers.

With more than 200 specialisations in policing, from firearms officers to public order policing, the need for continuous professional development (CPD) is clear. Sir Marsh advocated for a system akin to a "license to practice" seen in professions like law and medicine. Such a system could reinforce public trust in the police force and ensure officers maintain the highest standards of professional conduct, he stated.

Dr John Coxhead, a retired officer and Professor of policing at Loughborough University discussed the process of translating professional experience into formal qualifications. He likened this to "exchanging currency", where prior learning and work experience can be converted into recognised academic achievements.

A significant focus was placed on the National Qualifications Framework, which structures qualifications into eight levels, offering officers a chance to understand where their experience fits into formal education.

Dr Coxhead also introduced the concepts of Accredited Prior Learning (APL) and Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL), which allow officers to map their on-the-job experience against educational standards. By doing this, many officers find themselves closer to achieving formal qualifications than they initially thought.

One of the unique challenges in gaining accreditation is translating the specialised vocabulary used in policing into terms recognised by educational institutions. Dr Coxhead noted many officers are surprised by how much academic credit they can receive once their skills are "translated" into educational language. This is an essential step in ensuring police officers' real-world experience is recognised in formal settings.

For officers looking to pursue higher education, financial support is available through various channels. Karen Morton, senior research officer at the College of Policing, introduced the College’s bursary scheme, which offers up to £4,000 for academic studies at Level 6 (undergraduate) and beyond. The goal of the bursary is to support police officers in developing their research skills, which can bring value to both their personal development and their respective forces.

Rob Lovesey from Serve and Protect Credit Union (CU) also highlighted the financial options available for officers seeking further education. Serve and Protect CU offers education loans at competitive rates, making it easier for officers without savings or bursary support to fund their studies.

Jim Holyoak, senior lecturer at Staffordshire University, stressed the importance of higher education in the policing profession. He explained how formal academic qualifications can enhance an officer's confidence and leadership skills.

Mr Holyoak shared his own experience of earning a master’s degree in leadership and management while serving as a police officer, illustrating how higher education can empower professionals both personally and professionally.

Professor Gary Shaw of the University of Sunderland discussed the importance of keeping skills and knowledge current, as outdated practices can lead to errors and inefficiencies. CPD ensures professionals stay informed about changing laws, policies, and investigative techniques, making them more effective in their roles. “In today’s fast-evolving professional landscape, CPD has become essential, particularly in fields like investigative policing,” he said.

Professor Shaw highlighted CPD goes beyond attending training sessions; it requires professionals to reflect on their experiences, learn from mistakes, and implement new strategies in their daily work. This process of reflection, combined with continuous learning, fosters an investigative mindset that is crucial in policing and other investigative roles.

One of the most significant benefits of formal CPD programmes is the boost in confidence they provide. Professor Shaw provided examples of professionals who entered educational programmes with doubts about their abilities, only to graduate with newfound confidence in their skills and knowledge. This sense of achievement not only enhances individual careers but also contributes to the broader professionalism of the police force.

The seminar also highlighted CPD programmes can be tailored to meet the needs of professionals at various stages of their careers. For example, the University of Sunderland offers diplomas and advanced diplomas in investigative techniques, catering to officers who have completed certain professionalising programmes like the Professionalising Investigation Programme (PIP) Levels 1 and 2. These tailored programs ensure officers continue to build on their existing expertise and develop further specialisation.

CPD and formal accreditation are not just buzzwords in the professional world; they are essential tools for career growth and maintaining public trust. The seminar made it clear accreditation offers more than just a certificate, it provides assurance that officers are competent and up to date with current practices.

Gaining accreditation for experiential learning, participating in CPD programmes, and pursuing higher education open doors to leadership roles and enhance overall job performance.

The Professional Development Seminar underscored the importance of gaining formal accreditation for skills and training in the policing profession. From converting experiential learning into qualifications to accessing financial support for further education, police officers have a wide range of resources available to help them advance their careers.

As policing continues to evolve, CPD and accreditation will play a pivotal role in ensuring officers remain confident, competent, and ready to meet the demands of their roles.

By investing in their professional development, officers not only secure their futures but also strengthen the profession as a whole.

You can watch back the full seminar here.