Please follow this link to download our PCSO ... - Dorset Police

Oct2010What training is available?PCSO’s are appointed on a 6-month probation and during this time you willundergo an extensive programme of training that will prepare you for youroperational duties.How long is my training?You will be under training and assessment for 6 months. Some of yourtraining will be classroom based, some practically based and someundertaken in the operational environment. You can expect to be supportedand assisted by trainers, tutors and assessors throughout yourprobationary period. You will receive a variety of general and specialisttraining on topics such as equal opportunities, diversity, first aid, personalsafety and relevant powers and procedures.Where will my training take place?Training for Dorset Police students is non residential. This means that you willbe able to live at home throughout the course and will be able to spendevenings and weekends with your family and friends. Your training will initiallybe spent at Dorset Police Headquarters, near Wool. Here you will undertakean Induction phase of two weeks. This will then be followed by three weeks ofcommunity involvement and safer neighbourhood training based atBournemouth. This includes a community placement with a host organisation inthe community. There then follows some four more weeks of training specific tothe role of a PCSO. You will then move on to the your Division where a 6 weektutorship will take place.How will I be assessed during my training?By the time your probationary period is complete you must be competent towork independently as a police community support officer. This means youwill need to be assessed against the skills attitudes and behaviours laid downfor that role. There are also underpinning knowledge requirements. You willbe assessed by examination, by observation and by professional discussion.You will also be required to complete a portfolio of evidence which supportsyour achievement of competence to carry out your role. This form ofassessment will form the basis of your career long learning.Whilst on training will I be expected to do any work at home?

Dorset Police believe that individuals are responsible for their own learningand development. You are very likely to have to do some reading in your owntime to ensure that you have knowledge of subject matter which will allowyour trainers to develop a better understanding. You will be able tomanage this studying in a way that best suits your lifestyle.What do I do for refreshments on training?Training at Headquarters and on Division is not residential and meals will bemet at your own expense. There are no canteen facilities available at ForceHeadquarters or Bournemouth, so you should bring a packed lunch or be preparedto buy food from the catering establishment on the adjacent UKAEA site. During thefirst 9 weeks of training at either Bournemouth or Winfrith, refreshments i.e. tea andcoffee will however be provided.Where can I park whilst training?There are parking facilities at Force HQ Winfrith, and you will be issued thenecessary permit on joining. There is no staff parking at Bournemouth, howeverthere are public car parks nearby.Is accommodation available during training?Your training is non-residential. Dorset Police staff are responsible for theirown living arrangements and can live anywhere in the County (andsometimes beyond) provided they are able to report for duty on timeanywhere in the county.What will my training working hours be?Whilst undertaking your initial training, your normal working hours will be 0800to 1600 with a 45-minute break for lunch. There may be some occasionswhen there will be opportunity to work some late shifts 1400 – 2200 andpotentially some weekends e.g. during your community placement phase.l