There are many opportunities for advancement and promotion in the police force, not least of which is the position of police sergeant. Although lots of officers have satisfying careers without progressing beyond constable, many policemen and women go forward for their sergeant exams every year.
The rewards of becoming a police sergeant are more than just financial – increased respect, job satisfaction and a sense of really making a difference are some of the benefits cited from those who have made it to sergeant. At the time of writing a newly promoted police sergeant earns in excess of £29,000 per annum, a salary which will rise each year to around £32,000 after four years.
Police Sergeant Qualifications
Many people are surprised to find that there are no formal educational requirements for recruitment to the police service; character and other life skills being more highly valued.
You will have to demonstrate good English and undergo a numeracy test. The selection process includes a rigorous fitness test.
The Ups and Downs of being a Police Sergeant
Working as a police sergeant usually means shift-work, which can have a negative impact of family and social life. Although it is very satisfying when you do manage to make a difference, it can be demoralising when your efforts come to nothing – some people just do not want to be helped.
The job and environment can make you suspicious of people generally – your family and friends may complain you have become cynical.
On the up-side, working as a police sergeant gives you the opportunity to work within an environment of camaraderie and great team-spirit – invaluable when doing a stressful job.
Important Skills and Qualities of A Police Sergeant
Communication skills are all-important for a police sergeant, and communication is not just one way – the ability to listen is key. It may sound clichéd to talk about staying calm in the face of confrontation, but this is essential when faced with possibly aggressive behaviour. Many people you come into contact with as a police sergeant will be scared, and this can make them aggressive.
Special Police Sergeant Training
All police officers undertake two training sessions per year in defensive tactics, such as using a baton or handcuffing, along with life-saving and first aid.
Sergeants can take courses to specialise – such as Custody Sergeant – which often consist of two week courses covering all practical aspects of the job.
So how does a police officer progress through the ranks to become a sergeant?
Everyone who completes police training begins their career in the force as a constable, and must complete a two year probationary period before they can take the promotion exam to achieve the rank of sergeant. Don’t be in a rush to apply for promotion to sergeant – life experience is valued, as is experience in the police force.
The sergeant examination is in two parts consisting of a written exam, which tests knowledge of policing procedures and criminal law, and a practical skills test which uses role-play for assessment.
The Route To Becoming A Police Sergeant
The usual route to becoming a police sergeant is by first taking the initial police training course which typically takes around 18 months. After working as a constable for two years you can apply for the OSPRE (Objective Structured Performance Related Examination) sergeant exam.
The OSPRE Sergeant Exam
The OSPRE sergeant exam was developed in 1991 to properly asses the skills necessary to perform at the rank of sergeant. Before this, a single exam merely tested legal knowledge.
Once it was recognised that the role of sergeant also required supervisory skills, along with great management skills, the new two-part examination was brought in.
OSPRE PART 1:
The first part of the OSPRE exam initially involves a three hour multiple-choice examination of up to 150 questions which test the candidates’ knowledge of the legal system.
The exam takes place once a year, usually in March. Originally the pass mark for the OSPRE exam was 75%, but this has now changed to 55%. You will need to pass part one of the exam before you can progress to part two.
Although fitness is not tested as part of the OSPRE sergeant exam it is a good idea to maintain your fitness levels at all times.
This will help to keep you in good shape to cope with the demand of the job.
How To Prepare For The Exam
Firstly brush up on your knowledge of all aspects of the law and legal procedures. You will need to display extensive knowledge of general police duties, road traffic, crime, evidence gathering and procedures.
OSPRE PART 2:
While the first part of the OSPRE exam is designed to test the candidates’ knowledge of the law, part two tests their potential to make great managers and supervisors.
These are not skills which have necessarily been developed during time as a police constable, so the assessment is looking for potential.
This assessment is carried out during a one and a half hour examination which involves role-play in a variety of relevant situations.
How to score EASY marks.
By using keywords and phrases that match the integrated core competencies you will greatly increase your chances of success. The assessors will also look for evidence that you can provide each role actor with the right level of support and development.
Don’t worry – training for part two of the OSPRE sergeant exam is available. The training needs to be carried out by a qualified trainer in a classroom environment. Candidates will practice the scenarios using role-play and receive important feedback from the tutors.
There are also various study kits available to help you prepare for part two of the exam, containing sample role play situations. It is worthwhile spending as much time as possible preparing for the exam, as if you fail to meet the criteria you will need to wait a full year before you can take it again.
Which Is Where We Can Help...
The Police Sergeant OSPRE Part 2 ‘Insiders’ Guide
The position of police sergeant is competitive and you need to stand out in every part of the recruitment process and failure can mean waiting 12 months before being able to apply again.
Many of those who apply for this role do limited or no preparation and as a result struggle during the process. Those candidates that do succeed are fully prepared and many do with the help of insider knowledge...
This comprehensive 100+ page CD ROM guide is full of insider information on how to pass the OSPRE Part 2 exam.
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Preparing For The OSPRE Part 2 Exam
• Essential Background information on the exam
• The recruitment process explained in detail
• Using the preparation phrase and using it to your advantage
• The pre assessment documentation and what you should take from it
• The types of role scenarios you will be asked to undertake
• How you are scored in the role plays
• How to achieve level 5's in each assessment.
• Showing the right 'approach' during assessment.
• The police sergeant core competencies and how you can match them.
• Two sample Models to help you practice and prepare.
•The Keywords and phrases that can increase your chances of success
• The behavioural items.
10 Sample Role Play Scenarios
• 10 detailed 'mock' role play scenarios to ensure you are fully prepared
• Guidance notes on each situation so you understanding what is required.
• 5 police personnel scenarios
• 5 non police personnel scenarios.
• Information and guidance notes for the role play actors.
• Candidate information notes.
• Insider tips and essential advice on how to pass the exam first time
• Unique information not available anywhere else
PLUS MANY MORE PAGES OF ESSENTIAL INFORMATION...
BONUS 1 - 'The Police Fitness Test' MP3
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