What is the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) doing to ensure the classroom environments for the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) and Degree Holder Entry Programme (DHEP) do not replicate the “banter” culture that has been identified at some police stations?

All new recruits joining the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) spend their first three days with the Learning & Development (L&D) Team at Hendon. A new engagement programme for these three days was launched in October 2021. This focuses on properly welcoming recruits into the organisation, building connections internally and externally and helping to create an environment where everyone feels that they belong and can thrive from Day 1. Responsibilities in relation to Professional Standards and wider links to trust and confidence are central to the programme, and the Deputy Commissioner addresses all recruits on these matters.

The formation of the new L&D HQ in early 2021 has ensured that a robust and consistent approach to professional standards has been adopted. This ensures that probationary Constables are aware of the standards that are expected of them not only whilst in initial training, but throughout their careers within the MPS. This work has not only focused on recruits, but within the entire L&D command.

To ensure oversight of all allegations of misconduct and drive proactive activities to ensure standards are maintained and improved, a monthly L&D Professional Standards Board chaired by the Commander L&D with representatives across L&D at Superintendent rank was created in October 2021. The Directorate of Professional Standards (DPS) is represented at the board to ensure a consistent and corporate approach.

To maintain the constant ‘hands on’ supervision of recruits, the MPS have a dedicated Inspector at each site supporting the work of Sergeants. A Chief Inspector oversees this work to underline the commitment to driving the highest professional standards. L&D also run a quarterly Continuing Professional Development (CPD) event for Babcock and Higher Education Institution (HEI) lecturing staff to ensure that everyone involved in teaching recruits is fully in step with MPS standards and expected behaviour.