ON THE BEAT:

The first group of students on Staffordshire Police’s new training courses have graduated.

A total of 65 recruits were honoured at a special ceremony at Staffordshire County Showground.

The students, who began their studies in June and October 2019, completed their Degree in Professional Policing Practice (PCDA) or Diploma in Professional Policing Practice (DHEP) in June and October this year.

A total of 48 recruits completed the three-year Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship, while 17 finished their twoyear Degree Holder Entry Programme.

Both programmes of study combined a mixture of onthe-job practical policing experience, as well as academic tutoring.

The force has worked with Staffordshire University to deliver the courses.