PFEW launches pioneering accreditation programme for representatives
The Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) is taking a “transformative step” in the professional development of its representatives through a groundbreaking partnership with The Open University.
This collaboration has resulted in the creation of a fully accredited Level 7 Postgraduate Certificate in Advanced Professional Practice, set to launch this autumn.
The nationally recognised, externally validated qualification formally recognises and enhances the knowledge, skills and behaviours of current and future Federation representatives.
“In a fast-evolving policing landscape, where public expectation and political scrutiny are intensifying, the role of police officers – and those who support them – has never been more demanding,” said the PFEW.
“Our workforce must be skilled, agile, and properly supported. While debates over officer numbers continue in political circles, the reality is more complex: policing requires the right people, with the right skills, in the right roles – and they must be fairly paid, well-trained, and effectively retained.
“At PFEW, representing over 145,000 members, we recognise this reality. Our Federation representatives play a critical role in supporting our members and advocating for their needs.
“As the demands on police officers have grown, so too have the expectations placed on our representatives. The skills required today cannot be left to chance – professionalism, credibility, and consistency are vital.”
The Level 7 Postgraduate Certificate in Advanced Professional Practice will begin accepting its first cohort following the conclusion of the 2025 PFEW elections.
This two-module programme is aligned with the PFEW’s 2028 Strategic Vision.
“This pioneering programme marks a significant shift in how Federation reps are supported and developed,” said the PFEW. “While internal knowledge-sharing and experience remain invaluable, external accreditation brings consistency, rigour, and legitimacy to our work.
“In today’s environment, self-appointed subject matter expertise is no longer sufficient –our representatives need to demonstrate validated, high-level competence.”
Dr Sean Bell, lecturer in Policing Organisation and Practice at The Open University, and David Bamber, Learning and Development lead at PFEW, have worked closely to ensure the curriculum meets the real-world needs of Federation work and the challenges our members face.
Module One focuses on personal reflection, self-awareness, and the impact of a representative’s work. It sets the foundation for future learning, encouraging reps to critically assess their role, style, and contribution to the Federation and its membership.
Module Two allows learners to specialise in a key area of relevance – such as wellbeing, misconduct or equality – through a research project that combines academic rigour with practical application. This ensures that representatives emerge as credible, externally validated subject matter experts.
Successful completion of both modules will result in the award of the Postgraduate Certificate in Advanced Professional Practice – a first for the Federation and a major milestone in its commitment to professional excellence.
Mukund Krishna, chief executive officer of the PFEW, said: “This accreditation programme is not just about individual achievement; it is about strengthening the Federation as a whole. By investing in our representatives, we are investing in our members, and by extension, the public they serve.
“This initiative underscores our continued commitment to putting members first, enhancing professional credibility, and ensuring that PFEW remains a relevant, forward-thinking organisation at the heart of UK policing.”
The first intake is expected to be enrolled on the programme in November.