Training
Student Officer Training
As a new recruit to the Police Service of Northern Ireland you will be required to undertake the Student Officer Training Programme (SOTP) which takes place at the Training College, Garnerville, Belfast. The programme is made up of two stages which last 21 weeks in total. Its aim is to prepare trainees fully for the rigors of operational policing.
The first stage of SOTP provides an introduction to policing and to the role of a police officer. It covers issues such as Human Rights, Ethics, Police and Community Relationships, Principles of Policing, Evidence, The Criminal Justice System, Interviewing, Files and First Aid. This training is primarily classroom based but includes practical sessions throughout.
The second stage of SOTP aims to develop the knowledge and skills acquired in stage one in more specific and practical areas. It includes topics such as Vulnerable Persons, Crime, Traffic, General Police Duties and Files. Classroom work is an integral part of this training but there is more emphasis on practical policing.
Physical
During the Student Officer Training you will also undergo a rigorous Physical Education Programme and will be required to pass a Physical Competence Assessment.
Please explore fully the following Training sections to get a picture of what you will undergo during your training course as a new Trainee Police Constable:
Also please refer to PSNI's own website regarding training in the PSNI: