PCEP entry route into policing
Police Officer Applications - Currently Closed
Due to a high level of interest, we have temporarily closed applications for police officer recruitment. Applications are not currently being accepted, but recruitment will reopen once capacity allows. Please continue to check our website and official channels for updates.
Thank you for your interest in joining the police service and for your patience.
Joining the Police
Start a meaningful and rewarding career with Norfolk Constabulary through the Police Constable Entry Programme (PCEP). An accessible and supportive route into frontline policing for people from all backgrounds.
As a Police Constable, you’ll earn a starting salary of £31,164, rising to £50,256 within seven years, while working full‑time (40 hours per week). From day one, you’ll receive high‑quality training, hands‑on experience, and ongoing support to help you grow into a confident and capable officer.
The PCEP is designed to give you everything you need to succeed, professional development, practical skills, and real‑world policing experience, while helping you build a career that makes a genuine difference in our communities.
Below is an overview of what to expect from the programme.
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Award accreditation |
Currently Non-Accredited Award |
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Minimum Qualification Requirements |
Minimum of a Level 2 qualification in English Language or English Literature at a GCSE (Grade C and above or level 4 to 9) or equivalent. Two A-Levels (or equivalent Level 3 qualification) holding 32 UCAS points OR Evidence of two years’ experience in comparable role and completion of a skills assessment OR Minimum of 2 years’ experience as a PCSO, Special Constable, or have served the minimum term of service with the UK Armed Forces and have achieved an exemplary reference on discharge (4+ years, or 3 years if pre-1999). You will be required to complete a skills assessment on application. |
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Length of Study, Probationary Period |
Two year probationary period to attain ‘Established Practitioner Status’. |
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Annual Leave Entitlement |
22 days annual leave per year, excluding bank holidays. |
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Assessment/exams |
Summative Assessments during the initial 22-week training course inc. 4 modular exams and selected Student Development Exercises. Plus a work-based portfolio supported by tutor, supervisors and assessors. |
Eligibility criteria
PCEP specific qualification requirements are outlined in the page below – click on the PCEP link.
- Candidates can apply when 17 years old but must be 18 by the time training commences.
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Minimum of a Level 2 qualification in English Language or English Literature at a GCSE (Grade C and above or level 4 to 9) or equivalent..
Two A-Levels (or equivalent Level 3 qualification) holding 32 UCAS points OR
Evidence of two years’ experience in comparable role and completion of a skills assessment OR
Minimum of 2 years’ experience as a PCSO, Special Constable, or have served the minimum term of service with the UK Armed Forces and have achieved an exemplary reference on discharge (4+ years, or 3 years if pre-1999). You will be required to complete a skills assessment on application.
- Must hold a full UK manual driving licence upon application.
- UK Citizen or legal right to enter or leave to remain in the UK (lived in the UK for at least 3 years).
- Tattoos which are discriminatory, offensive, or provocative will not be accepted.
- Medical conditions will be assessed throughout the recruitment process, including eye tests and fitness tests.
- Background security checks will take place upon application; any formal dealings with the police must be declared.
Read more about the PCEP entry route below