This introductory module provides an overview of the history, structure, governance, values and ethics of the police service in England and Wales. It focuses upon key legislation, with emphasis on human rights, equality, diversity, inclusion and the maintenance of professional standards. Criminal law and the Justice System, including the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) are taught, together with aspects relating to the topics of terrorism and vulnerability. Wellbeing, resilience, teamwork and communication skills are also delivered.

The module is designed to equip learners with the necessary skills required to successfully complete programme. It provides students with the ability to resource and synthesise appropriate material; reference accurately and to think, read and write in a critical manner. It is designed to enhance problem solving skills and develop understanding of evidence-based practice in a policing context.

Indicative content reflects the College of Policing National Policing Curriculum stipulated for delivery at level 4 of the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship as follows:
Understanding the Police Constable Role: 1.1 – 7.4 inclusive
Maintaining Professional Standards: 1.1 – 4.5 inclusive
Decision-making and Discretion: 1.1 – 7.3 inclusive
Communication skills: 1.1 – 1.9 and 2.1 – 2.4 inclusive
Vulnerability and Risk: 1.1 – 12.3 inclusive
Counter Terrorism: 1.1 – 7.5 inclusive
Criminal Justice: 1.1 – 7.8 inclusive
Response Policing: 6.1 – 8.15 inclusive
Research Methods and Skills: 1.1 – 6.3 inclusive
Evidence Based Policing: 1.1 – 4.5 inclusive
Wellbeing and Resilience: 1.1 – 1.6 inclusive
Leadership and Team-working: 1.1 – 2.4 inclusive

Knowledge Check 1:
Consisting of 25 multiple-choice questions and 1 hour in duration.
Learning Outcomes 1 – 3.

Knowledge Check 2:
Consisting of 25 multiple-choice questions and 1 hour in duration
Learning Outcomes 1 – 3.

Group Presentation:
Within the context of policing, professionalism, resilience, and wellbeing. This will consider verbal, written and technological communication.
Leaning Outcomes 4 – 5.

Essay:
Students are required to complete a 1000-word academic essay that demonstrates their understanding of the application of evidenced based practice in policing and their ability to apply academic writing skills.
Learning Outcomes 6 – 7.

Please note: Each element of assessment must be passed, and that aggregate marking will not apply

Lectures, tutorials, and pre-prepared learning material facilitated through use of the Blackboard VLE and MS Teams, will be used, as appropriate, to develop learners and prepare them for the workplace. The delivery team will employ a range of learning and teaching methodologies which may include group work, problem-based learning, learner presentations, feedback, and online tutor/learner-led discussions. A blended approach to delivery will be taken and a mix of methods used for formative knowledge checks.
A module handbook and other detailed supportive material such as assessment briefings is available to learners and will set out requirements and expectations in more detail.

1. Demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of common legislation, and the fair, unbiased application of police powers.
Knowledge, Learning, and Understanding

2. Demonstrate understanding of vulnerability and how to assess risk in a policing context. Knowledge, Learning, and Understanding

3. Demonstrate a basic understanding of counter terrorism and policing responses to terrorist incidents Knowledge, Learning, and Understanding

4. Explain the role of police constable within the context of UK policing, the criminal justice system, and the importance of and methods to maintain professional standards.
Knowledge, Learning, and Understanding

5. Demonstrate communication skills, leadership, and team working skills and practices and understanding of strategies to develop resilience and maintain personal wellbeing within policing Knowledge, Learning, and Understanding, Communication

6. Understand and apply research methods and skills including literature searching, academic writing and statistical analysis
Knowledge, Learning, and Understanding, Enquiry

7. Demonstrate an understanding of evidence-based policing and its application to policing in practice Knowledge, Learning, and Understanding, Problem Solving

Blackboard VLE
MS Teams
University library and associated online learning materials.
Teaching spaces equipped with computer, projector, screen, white boards etc.
Live streaming/recording equipment/software.

See Module reading list.