Police Cadets

Information

We are not recruiting Police Cadets at present.

The Police Cadet Scheme is open to all school leavers who are between 16 and 17 and a half years of age.

The reason for the specific age range is down to the fact the programme takes a minimum of six months to complete.

A number of experienced officers began their careers as cadets, including the former Deputy Chief Constable Garry Sutherland.


The cadet Scheme gives recruits the best possible start to their careers and places them in a strong position to successfully take part in the selection process to become a Police Constable.

Cadets undertake a number of placements within the Force Operations Centre and with specialist Police Support Units such as Crime Management and Community Safety.

Recruits are also subject to regular assessment, on courses and whilst on placements during the term of their cadetship. Their cadetship is salaried.

It is desirable for cadets to be fit and in good general health. Police forces no longer apply a minimum height requirement. Although there is no requirement to be the holder of a full Driving Licence before joining, cadets will be required to pass their driving test during it. Cadets are also required to sit the Police Standard Entrance Test