First non-degree recruits since 2020 join Wiltshire Police

Recruitment for the IPLDP entry route opened in May this year

Author: Aaron HarperPublished 18th Dec 2023
Last updated 18th Dec 2023

Wiltshire Police have welcomed their first cohort of non-degree constables since 2020 to the Force.

The group of 30 took their attestation at the Police HQ in November, being sworn in by Justice of the Peace Maryanne Burton.

In May this year, Wiltshire Police opened recruitment for candidates to become police officers through the Initial Police Learning Development Programme (IPLDP) route.

This allows individuals to join the Force without studying towards a degree level qualification alongside becoming a police constable.

As a result, the group has a variety of backgrounds, some being ex-forces, others having worked in retail and some being just 18-years-old.

The attestation ceremony involved taking The Oath, where constables swear to serve the King in the office of constable, with fairness, integrity, diligence and impartiality, upholding fundamental human rights and according equal respect to all people”.

The new recruits were welcomed by Assitant Chief Constable Deb Smith and Wiltshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Philip Wilkinson.

The group are now on their 23-week training course.

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