College to launch fast-track programme for inspectors to senior leaders

The accelerated promotion process is designed to improve the number and diversity of those progressing to chief officer ranks.

Applications from substantive inspectors who aspire to become senior leaders will open in October.

The programme runs over two years and will support the development of officers’ skills, knowledge and experience in senior leadership.

“By providing a flexible and accelerated journey through the promotion process, as well as training and development to suit individual and force needs, one of the aims of this programme is to improve both the number and diversity of officers progressing to chief officer ranks,” said the college.

Officers will have access to an executive coach for one-to-one sessions and will complete modules on personal, operational and organisational leadership at senior levels.

They will also be able to apply their learning in practical scenarios through Hydra immersive training exercises. The college says this creates a “safe yet realistic space” to experiment with new learnings within a simulated environment.

All officers who complete this programme will graduate as superintendents.

Interested officers of a substantive inspector rank will need to enquire with their individual force to assess if they are eligible.

Ray Clare, head of leadership at the College of Policing, said: “Ensuring we have the correct people in senior leadership is essential for building and retaining trust between the service and the public.

“This two-year fast-track inspector to superintendent programme will help to identify and develop officers who have the potential to flourish as great senior leaders.”