BSc (Hons) Professional Policing Practice€¦ · which is a practice based qualification that provides apprentice police oﬃcers with the skills and abilities needed in 21st century

BSc (Hons) Professional Policing PracticeCourse Handbook

Faculty of Life Sciences and EducationSchool of Health, Sport and Professional Practice

Academic Manager: Hannah Coombs

2 www.southwales.ac.uk

Welcome to the next stage in your journey to becoming a police professional. As Chief Constable,Devon and Cornwall Police are committed to the professional development of all our staff, inaccordance with national best practice and Continuous Professional Development. I very much hopethat you will engage fully with the BSc (Hons) Professional Policing Practice Programme which we areproud to deliver in partnership with the University of South Wales Prifysgol De Cymru.

Shaun Sawyer QPM BA Hons

Chief ConstableDevon and Cornwall Police

WELCOME FROM THE CHIEF CONSTABLE OFDEVON AND CORNWALL POLICE

WELCOME FROM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL

BSc (Hons) Professional Policing Practice | Course Handbook

‘As the Head of School for Health, Sport and Professional Practice, it is my pleasure to welcome you tothe University of South Wales. We are all committed to ensuring that you have the highest possiblestudent experience during your time with us and I know that your lecturers will provide strongsupport as you progress through your course. You will have some excellent opportunities to developduring your time with us and I urge you to take these. I sincerely hope that you not only learn andgrow whilst you are with us but also enjoy the experience of learning and being in a University whichcares very much about its students.’

Dr. James GravelleSchool of Health, Sport and Professional Practice,Faculty of Life Sciences and EducationUniversity of South Wales

www.southwales.ac.uk 3

1. Introduction and Welcome 42. The Course Context 63. Introduction to the Course Team 74. Course Content and Description 8 4.1. Course Aims and Learning Outcomes 8 4.2. Course Map 9 4.3. Your Learning 10 4.4. Access to Materials Online - Unilearn 11 4.5. The Learning Process 12 4.6. Academic Misconduct 13 4.7. Study Skills 135. Assessment 14 5.1. Types of Assessment 14 5.2. Your Schedule of Assessments 14 5.3. How to Submit Work 15 5.4. Feedback on your Work 16 5.5. How USW Mark 16 5.6. Referencing 18 5.7. Extenuating Circumstances 19 5.8. Reassessment Arrangements 20 5.9. Practical Assessment in the Workplace 206. Your Progress 22 6.1. Personal Coaching and Progress Monitoring 23 6.2. Attendance 24 6.3. How your Degree Classification is Calculated 25 6.4. External Examiner 25 6.5. Student Casework (Student Regulations) 257. Your Feedback 26 7.1. Student Representatives and Student Mentors 278. Materials and Equipment for the Course 28 8.1. Library Services 28 8.2. Printing Services 289. Timetable 3010. Our Expectations of You 31 10.1. Rules and Regulations 31 10.2. IT and Social Media 31 10.3. Keeping in Touch 32 10.4. Changes to Personal Details 32 10.5. Communication 3311. Health, Safety and Wellbeing 3412. General Information 35 12.1. Student Support Services 35 12.2. Campus Maps 35 12.3. Students Union 35 12.4. Course Structure and Module Content (ICIS) Database 36 12.5. Examinations 36 12.6. Results 36 12.7. Graduation 36 12.8. Thanks 36


CONTENTS


Welcome to the University of South Wales (USW) on the BSc(Hons) degree in Professional PolicingPractice. This handbook will provide you with the information you need about your course and itsorganisation. It tells you about how the scheme operates and acts as a useful ‘Go To’ guide forinformation about the major sources of help available here at the University. It also outlines keyassessment regulations and essential information about appeals and disciplinary procedures.

Other information in this booklet includes details of some of the key staff connected with your course,and a calendar of important dates e.g. term dates, holidays, etc. The University is working inpartnership with Devon and Cornwall Police (DCP) and delivery of the training is shared by theorganisations. The initial training phase of the programme of study will be based at the MiddlemoorPolice Campus. The remainder of the practice based course will be carried out within the communitiesof the force area.

This degree has been designed to meet the needs of those forging an exciting career within policing.Your employability is important to us, as is your overall apprenticeship experience and the teachingteam here are keen to ensure that you progress, develop and learn in an environment that isprofessional and challenging and makes full use of a wide range of assessment and learning methods.The academic and practical elements of the course complement each other and assignments andplacements have been specifically developed to ensure this is achieved.

Enjoy your learning with us and make sure that you take every opportunity with which you arepresented. Make sure that you look back on your time with us at USW with fond memories and noregrets. This is your chance to shape your future career and get the knowledge, skills and experienceyou require to achieve Full Occupational Competence. The efforts you put in now will pay dividends inthe future. Policing is changing and it needs well qualified graduates who are equipped to deal withthe challenges the future will no doubt bring.

We are here to support you in your learning so if you need to locate a particular member of staff thenplease do contact them, details shown in section 3 of this handbook. You will have access to your ownpersonal copy of your student set timetable but you are strongly advised to monitor notificationssent to you as updating will inevitably occur from time to time.

We all wish you every success in your studies!

Hannah Coombs Hannah Coombs LLB (Hons), PGCE Academic [email protected]

Learning and Development is committed to supporting your professional development. As a team welove what we do and always aspire to be the best at it. We embrace hard work and the great peoplewithin our department are excited about our partnership with the University of South Wales which willensure you benefit from our combined expertise.

We are glad to have you with us – welcome to the Police family.

Jeannette Ritson Jeannette RitsonLearning and Development Manager

1. INTRODUCTION AND WELCOME




Chief Constable - Shaun Sawyer QPM


The College of Policing in consultation with UK police forces has introduced a qualification frameworkto professionalise the role of police officers at every rank. The result is that from the role of policeconstable upwards, the police service is becoming a graduate profession. To achieve this, the servicenow needs the assistance of the Higher Education sector to deliver two of the new programmes, one isfor existing degree holders and the other is the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) onwhich you are enrolled. The qualification for the PCDA is the ‘Degree in Professional Policing Practice’which is a practice based qualification that provides apprentice police officers with the skills andabilities needed in 21st century policing.

Devon and Cornwall Police and the University of South Wales are working in collaboration to deliverthe programme to all new DCP police officer recruits and are fully committed to support apprenticesin meeting these needs both academically and occupationally. From your first day you will be both aserving Police Officer and an USW student. DCP and USW will work closely at every stage of theprogramme and will share any necessary information that affects your development during yourprobationary period. Examples of information may include student engagement, assessmentsgradings, attendance and conduct (not an exhaustive list).

The PCDA is a three-year, full time qualification that requires you to work as a serving police officer for40 hours a week. In the event that you are authorised to work on a part time basis, as per Force Policy,your study programme will be adjusted proportionately. Upon achieving all academic and practicebased competencies outlined in the programme you will be; Fully Occupationally Competent (FOC), agraduate with a Degree and have successfully completed your probationary period with the employer.

Your training will be delivered on Devon and Cornwall Police premises and the initial six monthtraining phase will be delivered at;

Devon and Cornwall PolicePolice Headquarters, Middlemoor, Exeter, Devon EX2 7HQ

USW is situated in various locations across South Wales, including the town of Pontypridd and thecities of Cardiff and Newport. Your course is run by the Faculty of Life Sciences and Education and as aUniversity student, you have the opportunity to use facilities at all campuses.

Details of the facilities available at each of the campuses can be found on the Campus FacilitiesUniLife1 page, or by following this link: http://unilife.southwales.ac.uk/pages/3028-campuses-maps-and-facilities

In the event you need to locate a specific room at an University campus you can search for a roomnumber using this link: FindARoom at the University of South Wales:

2. THE COURSE CONTEXT


1 http://unilife.southwales.ac.uk/pages/3240

NB. Hyperlinks to key information are included throughout this document. To open the hyperlinks(usually shown in underlined coloured text) simply hold the Ctrl Key down and click the link with theright mouse button.

Disclaimer: The information contained within this handbook is accurate at the time of publication,however it is subject to change.


Details of the lecturers/trainers delivering your BSc (Hons) Professional Policing Practice are listedbelow. University staff are based at the Glyntaff Campus, Pontypridd and some specialists are broughtin to teach when required. Police trainers who deliver on the initial 6 month training phase are basedat Police Campus, Exeter.

This handbook also identifies a number of student/employee support services that may assist you,both on an academic and a personal level. Some offer generic support whilst others offer specificspecialist advice. You are welcome to contact them directly, however, you may prefer to contact amember of the training team who may be better placed to advise you as the first point of contact.


3. INTRODUCTION TO THE COURSE TEAM

Name Title Module Telephone E-Mail

Miss Hannah Coombs Academic All Modules 01443 654226 [email protected] Manager

Mr Gareth Evans Programme All Modules 01443 654226 [email protected] Manager

Gordon Blake Course Leader All Modules [email protected]

PC 6974 Adrian Tapp Police Trainer Initial Training Phase 01392 492004 [email protected]

PC 4997 Jackie Caught Police Trainer Initial Training Phase 01392 492117 Jacqueline.CAUGHT@ devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk

57701 Giles Boyling Police Trainer Initial Training Phase 01392 492123 [email protected]

PC 5032 Vanessa Police Trainer Initial Training Phase 01392 492135 Vanessa.THOMPSON@ Thompson devonandcornwall.pnn.police.uk

PC 5456 Katy King Police Trainer Initial Training Phase 01392 492122 [email protected]

56097 Alan Mobbs Police Trainer Initial Training Phase 01392 492124 [email protected]

PC 4161 Claire Rowe Police Trainer Initial Training Phase 01392 492127 [email protected]

Advice Centres/ZonesEach campus has an Advice Centre/Zone. Advice Centre/Zone staff offer a friendly, impartial and non-judgemental service, where you can talk openly in a confidential environment. They can work with youto find a resolution including guiding you towards any specialist support you may need. If you areexperiencing difficulties or Extenuating Circumstances, whether these are personal or academic, andthese are affecting your ability to study, please be aware that in addition to your allocated academic oroperational tutors you can also contact the Advice Centre/Zone. Details of each campus AdviceCentre/Zone can be found at http://unilife.southwales.ac.uk/pages/3235

Devon and Cornwall PoliceDCP also offer a number of support services some of which are referred to in 6.1 of this handbook andfull details are available from the intranet site http://intranet/Pages/Default.aspx You may be aware that you will need additional support and require reasonable adjustments to beput in place for you. We encourage you to make us aware of this at the earliest opportunity so thatwe can arrange this at an early stage.


The course aims and learning outcomes are focused upon developing apprentices acquiring theknowledge and practical skills needed to become an efficient and effective police officer. Theeducational aims and learning outcomes reflect the standards stated by the College of Policing andthe Police Forces of England and Wales.

4.1 Course Aims and Outcomes

Understand the legal and professional responsibilities of policing as a profession, and modern policingstrategies.

Employ an ethical approach to policing, maintaining the highest professional standards in providingservice to the public.

Proactively embed equality, diversity and human rights considerations as a core function ofprofessional practice.

Acquire and apply appropriate research skills in order to put evidence based policing initiatives intopractice.

Understand, employ and evaluate evidence based initiatives in the context of preventative policingand problem solving.

Enable decision making founded upon critical thinking, in complex professional situations andcontexts, demonstrating appropriate knowledge and application of powers, legislation andAuthorised Professional Practice.

Enable the exercise of autonomy and professional discretion, as appropriate to the role of policeconstable.

Acquire, use and enhance professional communication and engagement skills, including effective useof social media in policing.

Acquire and demonstrate leadership, team working and partnership working skills in a policingcontext.

Develop and maintain professional resilience in dealing with challenging situations.

Actively engage in continual self-reflection, evolving strategies to improve own professional practice.

Your learning journey will consist of academic modules (see Course Map opposite) that have practicalelements integrated into them. You will be required to evidence practical competency by completingan Occupational Competency Portfolio (OCP) of the skills you have demonstrated in the workplace.You will need to achieve Independent Patrol Status (IPS) by the end of your first year and complete theportfolio by the end of year 2. To successfully complete your 3 year probationary period and attain thequalification you will need to have evidenced all practice based competencies, passed all academicmodules and (where not already achieved) attained the equivalent of Functional Skills Level 2 inEnglish and Mathematics as prescribed in the College of Policing requirements for this qualification.

4. Course Content and Description




4.2 Course Map

BSc (Hons) Professional Policing Practice

All modules in this programme are core national policing curriculum modules and as per College ofPolicing stipulation, must be non-compensatory/ condonable.

YEAR ONE

Module Titles All Modules are 20 Credits

Role of the Police I

Responding to Incidents I

Continuous Improvement I

Working with Communities I

Prevention and Protection I

Evidence and Investigation I

Module Titles All Modules are 20 Credits

Role of the Police II

Responding to Incidents II

Continuous Improvement II

Working with Communities II

Prevention and Protection II

Evidence and Investigation II

YEAR TWO

Module Titles All Modules are 20 Credits (unless stated)

Modern Policing and Investigations

Intelligence Led Policing

Management in Policing

Occupational Competency Portfolio Review (EPA)

Evidence Based Project (EPA) (40 credits)

YEAR THREE

The Occupational Competency Portfolio Review Module and the Evidenced Based Project Module forms the End Point Assessment(EPA) which is integrated into the Degree Apprenticeship and is carried out by an independent assessor.


PCDA Student Journey

Year 1


Months 1-6 | Initial Training Phase

Knowledge, Understanding and Practical elements of Year 1 curriculum.Police specific training e.g. IT, Officer Safety, Driving Course

Employer led delivery to ensure programme meets organisational needs.All academic assessments to be managed by the USW ensuring learning outcomes are met and learning meets academic

standards.

OPERATIONALLY DEPLOYED

Months 7-9 | Tutoring Phase

1:1 Tutoring Period gathering evidence towards achievingIndependent Patrol Status in Occupational Competency

Portfolio

Months 10-12 | IPS Phase

Mentoring Period on shift. Gather evidence towards FullOccupational Competence in Occupational Competency

Portfolio

Months 25 - 36 | Continuous Development

Advanced Professional Development • Response Policing • Neighbourhood Policing • Policing the Roads • Information and Intelligence • Conducting Investigations

Apprentices will be required to complete 3 academic modules to trigger the End Point Assessment process, which consists of anevidence-based project and a review of their Occupational Competency Portfolio.

GATEWAY 3 – FULL OCCUPATIONAL COMPETENCE & 120 CREDITS LEvEL 6 (LEvEL 2 FUNCTIONALSkILLS IN MATHS AND ENGLISH IF NEEDED)

Code of Ethics and USW Student rules must be maintained throughout

Student development will be supported by a qualified tutor constable in the workplace until the student has evidenced thecompetence to patrol independently.

USW will continue to assess the academic capability through a series of assignments based on the students’ operationalexperience.

GATEWAY 1 – INDEPENDENT PATROL & 120 CREDITS LEvEL 4

Months 13-24 | Continuous Development

Professional Deployments• Response Policing • Neighbourhood Policing • Policing the Roads • Information and Intelligence • Conducting Investigations

Students should complete the OCP by the end of Year 2.

USW will continue to assess the academic capability through a series of assignments based on the students’ operational experience.

GATEWAY 2 – COMPLETION OF THE OCCUPATIONAL COMPETENCY PORTFOLIO & 120 CREDITS LEvEL 5

Year 2

Year 3


4.3 Your Learning

In addition to this Handbook you will receive information packs from both the Police HumanResources department and the University Student Services team. At the start of the course, you willreceive a number of sessions from both organisations that will cover a number of questions you mayhave, from, accessing an email account to how many annual leave days you are entitled. Thesesessions will also provide you with an opportunity to ask any further questions you may have. Theinduction phase has been developed by both DCP and USW to ensure that you receive the importantinformation you need as a serving police officer and as a university student. During this week you willalso receive inputs from specialist departments, such the professional standards department,occupational health and the police federation. During induction you will be given a detailed timetableof the initial training phase and route map of the entire three year programme.

Within this course, learning will be a mix of both lecturer-led and student-led inputs, depending onthe topic. A wide variety of teaching methodologies are used in the presentation of lecture material inorder to encourage and foster your learning capabilities, to enable you to achieve the aims of thecourse. Formal lectures are used to impart a pool of knowledge particularly in the early stages and alsoto define the basic areas of study. The learning processes are then continued, developed andconsolidated through other methods, such as tutorials, project work, case studies, simulated scenariosand work based learning to promote maximum participation by all apprentices. Much of your learningwill be distance on-line learning maximising technological opportunities.

You are ‘reading’ for a Level 6 qualification and to that end, we expect you to add to the basicframework we provide, through wider and more detailed study. We are encouraging you to be a self-sufficient, lifelong learner that takes personal responsibility for your own continuous professionaldevelopment. This is a practice based qualification and as such, a significant portion of your learningwill occur in the workplace. You will need to adopt a self-reflective approach and seek ways to developyourself into being the best police officer you can be.

4.4 Access to Materials Online – Unilearn

The University’s online learning environment, UniLearn,provides access to information about your course andmaterials and for each of your modules to support yourlearning as set out in the University’s Virtual LearningEnvironment (VLE) Minimum Requirements Policy. Furtherdetails and help with using UniLearn can be found at:http://studentit.southwales.ac.uk/

Details of all your assessments are provided throughUniLearn and short-notice changes will also be postedhere, so it’s important to log in regularly.

Further on-line learning materials are offered by the Policeand the College of Policing via a personal login account. https://www.mle.ncalt.com/Account/Login

DCP’s online learning environment, Open LearningAcademy, will give you access to additional learningmaterials. You will be provided with a link upon enrolment.



4.5 The Learning Process

You will be involved in four types of learning:

1. Contact with your lecturer (supported hours). 2. Study outside class times as directed by your lecturer (directed learning).3. Study at your own initiative (independent learning). 4. On the job training (work based)

Together, these make up the ‘total study hours’.

A typical 20 credit module has 200 total study hours and you take 120 credits in an academic year (soyou study 6 X 20 credit modules). Therefore, in total, your course equates to 1200 study hours per year.

The proportion of supported hours, directed learning and independent learning will change duringyour studies. For example, in your first year you may have more supported hours in comparison toyour final year as by this stage you will be capable of advanced independent learning.

You will receive a minimum of 20% protected learning time for off the job training across theprogramme. This includes supported learning, directed learning and independent learning, howeverit should be noted that in order to maximise this learning opportunity and take advantage of thewealth of information available it is likely that you may need to carry out some study during your ownpersonal time which is unpaid.




4.6 Academic Misconduct

The 2018/19 University of South Wales Academic Misconduct Regulations define academicmisconduct as:

‘any action or attempted action that may result in creating an unfair academic advantage ordisadvantage for any other member(s) of the academic community’

Developing knowledge often requires us to consider the work of other scholars and practitioners. Forexample, if you were analysing a famous work of art, or piece of music it would make sense to find outwhat other scholars have written about the subject as well as developing your own opinions.Understanding how to use the work of other scholars and practitioners, including your peers, todevelop your own insights into a subject is an important professional skill. It is not acceptable to usethe work of others without explicit acknowledgement. In this context, ‘work’ means words, ideas orcreative output. It doesn’t matter if this ‘work’ is published or unpublished, including material from theinternet. This means that whenever you include the work of others in your own assignments, you mustprovide a reference. Referencing correctly allows you to give respect to the original creators of thework. During your course, you will be expected to follow professional academic conventions toacknowledge when you have referred to others’ work. If you fail to do so, this could be considered anacademic offence, for which there are penalties which could affect your final results.

The main categories of academic misconduct are as follows:

l Intention to break the regulationsl Plagiarisml Cheatingl Contract Cheatingl Falsificationl Recyclingl Collusion

As all apprentices on this programme are serving police officers they are subject to the ‘Code of Ethics’and ‘Standards of Professional Behaviour’ set out by the police service. Any breaches of academicmisconduct will be reported to the employer which may result in employer disciplinary action.

4.7 Study Skills

A comprehensive list of helpful online resources and information related to study skills including writing, referencing and I.T. skills can be found at: http://studyskills.southwales.ac.uk/

L5 Year Two

L6 Year Three

5.1 Types of Assessment

The methods of assessment adopted have been chosen to reflect the nature of the assessmentsexpected of those entering the policing profession. There is a mixture of in class tests, practicalscenarios, academic written assignments and assessment in the workplace (see 5.9). Assessment isboth summative and formative. Formative assessments do not generate a recorded mark but will beused to facilitate learning and give you and your tutor/trainer an idea of your progress.

A schedule of the qualification’s summative assessments can be seen below. The months have beeninserted as a guide to help you plan, however, exact dates will be provided to you during yourinduction. Whilst the general structure will be followed, submission dates may sit outside the monthindicated.

5.2 BSc (Hons) Professional Policing Practice - Assessments Schedule2018/2019

5. ASSESSMENT



Role of the Police I

Assessment Methods:Month 2

In Class Test (40%)Month 2

Written Report (40%)Month 10

OCP Portfolio (20%)

Continuous Improvement I


Written Assignment(40%)

Month 4Reflective Journal (60%)

Responding to Incidents I



OCP Portfolio (50%)

Prevention and Protection I



OCP Portfolio (50%)

Evidence and Investigation I



Presentation (25%)Month 10

OCP Portfolio (50%)

Working with Communities I




OCP Portfolio (40%)

Role of the Police II

Assessment Methods:Month 4:


OCP Portfolio (30%)

Continuous Improvement II


In Class Test (100%)

Responding to Incidents II


Presentation (35%)Month 10:


OCP Portfolio (30%)

Prevention and Protection II



OCP Portfolio (30%)

Evidence and Investigation II


Written Report (30%)Month 10:


OCP Portfolio (30%)

Working with Communities II




OCP Portfolio (30%)

Modern Policing andInvestigations



Presentation (50%)

Intelligence Led Policing


Written Report (50%)Month 4:

Presentation (50%)

OccupationalCompetency Portfolio

Review (EPA)


Presentation (100%)

Evidence Based Project (EPA) (40 credits)


Dissertation on Evidenced Based Project (75%)Month 10:

Presentation on Dissertation (25%)

Management in Policing


Portfolio (100%)

L4 Year One


5.3 How to Submit Work

Arrangements for the submission of your coursework will be confirmed by your module tutor(s). TheUniversity has a policy of online submission via the Turnitin® (which is accessed via Blackboard) andtherefore the majority of your work will be submitted via this facility. However, you will be advised ofalternative arrangements where online submission is impractical. For further information andguidance relating to online submission please refer to the Turnitin Guide2 on UniLife.

Please note that unless you are advised of a specific hand-in time, the following deadline times willapply:

l Online submissions – 11:59pm (23:59)l Submission of work should be electronic and submitted via Turnitin unless other instructions are expressed by your Module Tutor.l You should keep electronic copies of all submissions.l You should retain your copy of the electronic receipt generated when you submit work via Turnitin.l If you experience IT difficulties when submitting work you should email an electronic copy BEFORE the deadline to the Module Tutor informing them of your difficulties. An electronic copy must still be submitted at a later date and must be identical to the one emailed to the Module Tutor with the document properties showing no further modifications.

By submitting a piece of work you are declaring that you are ‘fit to sit’ the assignment. This is still thecase even if you have submitted and been accepted as having extenuating circumstances.

If you meet the submission deadline, you will be awarded the full mark that your work is worth. If forsome reason you fail to meet the deadline, then you have FIvE working days in which to submit yourwork but the maximum mark you can be awarded for this piece of work is 40% as this work will thenbe ‘capped’ at 40%. If you hand in your work later than FIVE working days past the deadline, or if youdo not hand in the work at all, you will receive a mark of 0.

Please note that all assignments should be submitted online unless your faculty has formally approvedan exception for other forms of submission. The Advice Zone should be used for physical submissions,unless you have arranged assignment submission/receipting with the Advice Zone. Please note thatthe Advice Zone can only receive assignments that have been formally approved as being exempt –for further information see the Assignment Submission Required Process:http://celt.southwales.ac.uk/documents/download/285/


2 http://studentit.southwales.ac.uk/assessment/tii-guide/


5.4 How we Mark and Feedback

The purpose of feedback is to help you understand how you can improve your work in future.Feedback doesn’t just happen at the end of the module, or when you have submitted a piece ofassessment material. It happens continuously throughout your course – and in a variety of ways.

Feedback can be very informal, such as a verbal comment from your lecturer/trainer on how you wellyou have done in a class-based activity. This is called formative feedback. It doesn’t contribute to yourmodule mark, but this feedback helps you to understand what you need to do to succeed in yourassessed work. You’ll get more formal written or verbal feedback on your assessed work – calledsummative feedback - within 20 working days of submission (this is often referred to as ‘the 20 DayRule’).

When you receive feedback, whether it is formal or informal, written or verbal, you should alwaysconsider it very carefully as it will help you to achieve even better results next time.

You will also receive feedback in the workplace, initially from your tutor, who will give you formativefeedback regarding how you are progressing. You will also have reviews, where your occupationalcompetency will be summatively assessed and where appropriate, assessment criteria will be signedoff in the Occupational Competency Portfolio or given a developmental plan. Throughout yourprogramme you will receive feedback from a number of occupationally experienced staff, for example,supervisors and assessors.

5.5 How USW Mark

There are several safeguards in place to give you confidence that your work is being marked fairly, andthat your marks are equitable with other courses at the University and across the UK. After yourlecturer has marked your work, a double marking and moderation process takes place, wherebycoursework is checked by a second marker. This ensures that the marks which have been awarded arefair. Finally, an External Examiner from another institution also checks the work and verifies that thegrades awarded are on a par with those at other Universities.

Further details are viewable on these websites:http://asaqs.southwales.ac.uk/media/files/documents/2017-03-27/Regulations_for_Taught_Courses_1617.pdf


20 days may seem like a long time to wait, butplease remember that staff have lots of otherduties as well as marking, such as teachingother modules, research and administration.




5.6 Referencing

Apprentices are required to follow the USW Harvard referencing guidelines. These guidelines are forall in text citation as well as reference lists to be placed at the end of pieces of work. Don’t panic, youwill be taught how to do this during some teaching sessions. However, please become familiar withhow to reference, further guidance can be found using this hyperlink:http://studentlibrary.southwales.ac.uk/referencing/




5.7 Extenuating Circumstances

We recognise that there are certain times when you may not perform as well in an examination orassessment as you might have expected. In order to ensure that all students are treated fairly, and tomake sure that apprentices with genuine reasons for poor performance are not disadvantaged, theUniversity has implemented an extenuatingcircumstances procedure.

Further information on the procedure and how tosubmit a claim are available from the ExtenuatingCircumstances page on Unilifehttp://unilife.southwales.ac.uk/pages/3018-extenuating-circumstances

And the FAQ section on Advice Zone Online:http://unilife.southwales.ac.uk/pages/3370-advice-zone-online?locale=en

If you are experiencing difficulties or ExtenuatingCircumstances, whether these are personal oracademic, and these are affecting your ability tostudy, please make the campus Advice Centre/Zoneyour first port of call.

Details of each campus advice centre/zone can be found at:http://unilife.southwales.ac.uk/pages/3235


5.8 Reassessment Arrangements

The examination boards will determine whether you have passed your ‘modules’ and then whetheryou can progress to the next level of your course or receive your award. You should assume that inorder to pass the module at re-sit you will need to get 40% in every part you resubmit or re-sit. Itshould be noted that the Force has stipulated that students should be offered one opportunity to resiteach assessment.

DCP are clear in that students who do not pass all the modules for the year will not have achieved theminimum standard expected and will implement Regulation 13 to dispense with your services. As thisis a practice based qualification, only serving police officers can be on the programme and therefore,should your services be dispensed with, you will not be able to continue on this course. DCP dohowever, reserve the right to consider each individual case and decide whether to allow an apprenticeto resit an assessment for a second time.

A re-sit is defined as an opportunity to pass a module without further teaching input. Only failedelements of assessment may be retaken, marks for passed elements of assessment are carried forward.If you do not re-sit a failed element, a mark of 0% will be given for that element.

You must take the re-sit at the earliest available opportunity. However, where a subject assessmentboard determines that this is not possible, for example because the assessment requires studiofacilities or involves group work, they are held in the following academic session.

Re-sits are only allowable in cases of failure. Examiners cannot require you to re-sit any passedmodules and you cannot choose to re-sit a passed module in order to improve a grade. 3

Please note that if you have to re-submit an assessment it is your responsibility to find out the date ofresubmission (on UniLife) and seek supervision prior to the resubmission. Information on results andre-submission is not sent to you via a letter through the post; it is only available via your student onlineaccount.

In the event that you fail a module you will not be eligible to progress further on the course. Yourdevelopment will be reviewed and DCP may withdraw its support for you to study on the course.

5.9 Practical Assessments in the Workplace

In addition to the academic requirements, there is also an operational assessment portfolio that youwill need to complete. You will be assessed against criteria from the degree and will be required toshow increasing levels of competence throughout the three years. During the first year you will berequired to complete Independent Patrol status, showing a safe and lawful level of competence in avariety of tasks spanning across the most important areas of Police work. Completion of IndependentPatrol Status is mandatory in order for you to progress through Gateway 1 and into the second year.


The overall module mark for any re-sit modulewill be capped at 40%.


To support and develop you through this process you will be assigned a qualified tutor and assessoron your completion of initial training. You will spend 12 weeks with your tutor in the ProfessionalDevelopment Unit, and it is anticipated that you will achieve IPS during this time. This will allow you tooperate safely, lawfully, and independently as soon as you leave. During this time your performancewill be closely monitored and there is a provision for your tutorship period to be extended under adevelopment plan.During year 2 you will move on to completion of the Occupational CompetencePortfolio where you will be required to evidence full competence in the areas you were assessedagainst for the achievement of Independent Patrol Status, as well as some further, more complexsituations. You will be posted on to a policing section where you will be given further opportunity todevelop your operational competence. During year 2 a trained qualified assessor will accompany youon your section on two occasions, to further assess you and provide support in you evidencing yourOccupational Competence Portfolio.

In Year 3 you will need to maintain the standards expected of a serving police officer whilst alsoachieving the academic requirements of the qualification including End Point Assessments (EPA). It isonly after the EPA will you have completed the programme, achieved the qualification and completingyour probationary period.

In order to progress through the degree there are various academic and operational requirements topass through the Gateway at the end of each year. You will be required to achieve set levels bothoperationally and academically, as well as maintaining the high standards and behaviours that areexpected of a Police Constable. You will be fully supported throughout this process, however failure toachieve the occupational or academic parts of the programme will result in DCP dispensing with yourservices and withdrawing the opportunity to study on this course (covered under Police Regulations12 and 13).


PROGRAMME SUMMARY

Year 1: l Apprentice will have achieved Independent Patrol Status (IPS) by end of Year 1 of apprenticeship l Apprentice will have successfully completed all first-year degree modules, including all practical performance learning outcomes

Year 2: l Apprentice will have successfully completed all second-year degree modules, including all practical performance learning outcomes l Achievement of Full Operational Competence (FOC), evidenced by a work based Operational Competence Portfolio (OCP)

Year 3: l Apprentice will have successfully completed the apprenticeship’s assessment requirements, incorporating: l Achievement of Functional Skills Level 2 Mathematics and English (when applicable) l Successful completion of Degree in Professional Policing Practice

*DCP expects students to achieve Full Occupational Competency at the end of Year 2


6.1 Personal Coaching and Progress Monitoring

The USW Year Tutor will have regular contact with you. Your Year Tutor will also be your Personal Tutor,whom you are also encouraged to approach at any time to discuss any issues or ask for help or advice.Your Year Tutor may change from one year to the next.

As well as your teaching staff there may also be other staff that can provide help on various non-academic matters with whom you feel comfortable discussing matters and you may wish to use theservices and advice offered by the Advice Zone at USW, Pontypridd. All matters discussed will betreated confidentially. Advice Zones are your first point of contact for advice and informationregarding university life. Friendly Advice Assistants will be able to answer and advise on your queries,questions or concerns and can book appointments and make referrals to specialist teams and servicessuch as Counselling, Disability and Dyslexia, Money Advice and Student Progression.

Details of Advice Zones can be found at: http://unilife.southwales.ac.uk/pages/3235

6. YOUR PROGRESS


Advice Zone OnlineAdvice Zone Online is the University’s online student support system. It is one central place where youcan access support. Advice Zone Online lets students view Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and asknew questions, which will connect them with the right team at the University to get help.

Devon and Cornwall Police recognise the importance of ensuring support is readily available to theirworkforce. As an officer at DCP you will have access to the following support:

Devon and Cornwall Police Federation – 01392 3547702 River Court, Pynes Hill, Exeter EX2 5JL

http://dcpolfed.org.uk/

Occupational Health Support Unit (OHSU) - 01392 225672 [email protected]

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) – 0800 030 5182 http://home2013/PP/HW/Pages/EAPHA.aspx | www.healthassuredeap.comHealth Assured offer advice and support on a range of matters including Bereavement, Personal Life,Family Life, Work Issues, Management Finances, Legal Information, Retirement, Significant Life Eventsand Health and Wellbeing. The EAP is a confidential service which is completely free of charge andthere is no limit to the amount of times you can contact them. Health Assured offer a free 24/7


6.2 Attendance

DCP is funding your training and you are receiving a salary to complete this course. USW will besupplying the employer with regular reports of your activity in the VLE, contribution to onlineactivities, submission of works and general engagement and development. Failure to sufficientlyengage in learning activities may result in employer led disciplinary procedures.

Commitment to study is crucial to your academic and personal success. Students who attend lecturesregularly often achieve the highest grades. We know that there is proven link between yourengagement through attending classes, good use of the Virtual Learning Environment (UniLearn),frequent library usage and your success.


telephone service 365 days a year where individuals can access support, information and counsellingwith qualified counsellors.

Access is also available for any of the services on the Staff Support Hubhttp://intranet/supporthub/Pages/supporthub.aspx together with a wealth of information on theHealth and Wellbeing site http://home/PP/HW/HW/Pages/Home.aspx

USW and DCP staff will keep regular contact to share information as to your progress to properlyevaluate your development.



6.3 How your Degree Classification is Calculated

Information regarding how your degree is classified can be found within the University Regulations forTaught Courses listed under section A.2.9.5:http://asaqs.southwales.ac.uk/regulationstaughtcourses/


6.4 External Examiner

The External Examiner is an independent academic from another institution who reviews a sample ofwork from your course to assure the University that marking is fair, that we have applied ourregulations properly, and that standards are comparable to other Universities. All Universities have anexternal examining system and their role gives further assurance, beyond the marking and doublemarking that your tutors already do in-house, that marking is sound.

The External Examiner for this qualification is: to be confirmed

Can I contact my External Examiner?No. External Examiners are required to remain impartial at all times and they do not participate indetermining marks for individual students. Students should not attempt to contact any ExternalExaminer, and External Examiners are not permitted to respond to contacts made by students oranyone on behalf of a student. They will refer the contact back to the University.

If you wish to see a report written about your course or a part of your course you should email theAcademic Standards and Quality Service at [email protected]

6.5 Student Casework (Student Regulations)

Student casework is the term that the University uses to group the following sets of regulations: l Academic Appeals l Academic Misconduct (including plagiarism)l Extenuating Circumstancesl Fitness to Practise l Fitness to Study l Student Conduct l Student Complaints

Further information can be found at:http://uso.southwales.ac.uk/StudentCasework/

As all students on this programme are serving police officers you are subject to the ‘Code of Ethics’ and‘Standards of Professional Behaviour’ set out by the police service. Any breaches of academicmisconduct will be reported to the employer which may result in employer led disciplinary action.

The DCP policy for dealing with misconduct, underperformance and poor attendance can be found onthe DCP intranet.

http://intranet2013/bcudepts/ProfStand/Pages/CandMM-links.aspx



As students of the University of South Wales and DCP Police Officers, we expect you to be committedto enhancing the reputation of both organisations for your own benefit as well as that of futureapprentices. We are committed to deliver a quality product that enhances the student experience andfor this reason, we provide many ways in which you can tell us about your experiences:

l You can give feedback about your modules and courses at any time via Loop (https://loop.southwales.ac.uk). Your feedback is reported anonymously.

l Speak to lecturers/police trainers and other teaching staff. l You can raise issues with Course Reps and Student Voice Reps, who are there to help improve the courses they represent. Also, you can apply to become a Course Rep or Student Voice Rep yourself! l In your final year, you will be asked to fill in the National Student Survey (NSS), which benchmarks the University against other UK Universities.l DCP will also ask you for feedback at various points during the programme.

This helps us to improve the overall experience for the benefit of future students. In addition, all finalyear students are invited to take part in the National Student Survey, which benchmarks theUniversity against other UK Universities. Each course has Course Representatives, who meet regularlywith the teaching team and Faculty managers to feed back on the progress of the course. If you areunhappy, or particularly pleased, with any aspect of your course, you can feed this back to theteaching team via your Course Representative. If you would like to become a Course Representative,please mention this to your Course Leader.

DCP and USW have regular meetings to evaluate the programme and student feedback is key tounderstanding its effectiveness.

7. YOUR FEEDBACK



7.1 Student Representatives and Student Mentors

The role of Course Representatives is to attend meetings and give feedback to Course ManagementTeams, propose solutions to problems and actively engage in the organisation and running of acourse. Elections for Course Reps are held in class during the first weeks of initial training. Furtherinformation about the role and current course representatives can be found at:http://www.uswsu.com/course-reps

Student Voice Representatives are appointed at the start of the academic year and are a useful linkbetween students, course representatives, faculty staff and the Students’ Union. For furtherinformation about the role and current representatives, ask your course leader or go to: http://www.uswsu.com/student-voice-reps


The University’s Student Mentoring scheme enables students joining the University to receive supporton practical issues from more experienced USW students. Further information can be found at: http://studentmentoring.southwales.ac.uk/

For this course we encourage students who have passed through Gateway 1 to become StudentMentors for newer recruits. This will provide you with evidence for modules that contain leadershipand mentoring elements.


8.1 Library Services

USW Library facilities are available and open to all USW students. The library is your gateway toonline resources such as e-books, databases and subject guides. Your online experience is wellsupported through extensive access to e-journals, e-books and other electronic resources. Thefriendly and knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide guidance and support in person, online orvia telephone.

Further information can be found at: http://studentlibrary.southwales.ac.uk/

SCONUL access is a scheme which allows many university library users to borrow or use books andjournals at other libraries which belong to the scheme. To find out more about the scheme, who iseligible, and how it works, explore the link

https://www.sconul.ac.uk/sconul-access

As serving police officers your are entitled to gain access to the College of Policing on-line library andPOLKA. POLKA (the Police OnLine Knowledge Area) is a secure online collaboration tool for thepolicing community to network, ask questions, share insights, discuss ideas and suggest new ways ofworking.

https://www.college.police.uk/What-we-do/Research/polka/Pages/POLkA.aspx

There are a number of quiet/study areas across the site. Familiarisation and orientation input aregiven at the beginning of the course as part of the Induction input.

8.2 Print Services

Whilst working on police premises you will have access to networked printers.

8. MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT FOR THE COURSE






Course Timetable

Module Leaders/Police Trainers will provide you with further information on module content andstudent groups. On Day 1 of your course you will be provided with a timetable for the Initial LearningPhase of the programme that is to be delivered at Police Headquarters, Middlemoor. Please note thatyour timetable is subject to change throughout the year and it is your responsibility to keep abreast ofany changes.

There are periods of annual leave included in the timetable which you must take as part of your annualleave allocation. You will not be able to take any other annual leave during initial learning. If you needtime off due to an emergency you must speak to your DCP class trainer. Full details of annual leavearrangements will be provided as part of your induction.

Post Initial Learning Phase is mainly carried out in the workplace and the blended learning approachallows a great deal of flexibility for the student learning opportunities. That said, certain limitations willapply such as the submission dates for assessments. The Assessment poster in section 5.2 of thishandbook gives you an initial plan, specific dates will be set as the time approaches. Specific dates forsupported learning (classroom input, reviews etc) will also be made known to you nearer the time andwill be rostered on the DCP staff management systems.

9. TIMETABLE


10.1 Rules and Regulations

The Student Charter has been developed jointly by the University of South Wales and its Students’Union to enable its students to understand what will be expected of them during their studies, andwhat they can expect of the University. Further information can be found at:https://unilife.southwales.ac.uk/pages/3026-regulations-policies-and-procedures

See link for details of your terms and conditionshttps://www.polfed.org/about-us/police-regulations/

As a serving police officer you are also subject to the Code of Practice for the Principles and Standardsof Professional Behaviour for the Policing Profession of England and Wales and Police Regulations2003. Any incidents of professional misconduct will be brought to the attention of the Force, whichmay result in employer led disciplinary proceedings, your dismissal as a Police Officer and ejectionfrom the Course.

http://www.college.police.uk/What-we-do/Ethics/Ethics-home/Documents/Code_of_Ethics.pdfhttp://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2012/2632/pdfs/uksi_20122632_en.pdf


10. OUR EXPECTATIONS OF YOU

10.2 I.T. Regulations and Social Media

Information around the I.T. and social media regulations of the University can be found at thefollowing links: http://its.southwales.ac.uk/it-regulations/http://unilife.southwales.ac.uk/pages/3219-social-networking-facebook-twitter-and-more


10.3 keeping in Touch, Email and Online Resources

USW provides a web portal, UniLife, through which you can access e-mail (University email account),programme materials, library resources, study skills, news and events. You can also browse and reservelibrary books and equipment online as well as access your personal file storage space. You shouldcheck your University email address regularly as while some apprentices may prefer to use their ownpersonal accounts, the University will only communicate with you through your University account.

You will also be provided with a DCP email address.

10.4 Changes to Personal Details

DCP and USW understand that the personal information you provide us at enrolment may change butit is vital that we have accurate contact details for you. We also need your accurate full name as it willbe used for formal documentation such as your Transcripts and Certificates.

USW1. Changes such as your phone number or address can be updated immediately using the online service. By selecting “my account” on the Unlife homepage, and clicking the “update your details” link”. 2. Changes to personal information that is normally permanent can also be made by raising a new question in Advice Zone Online or in person at an Advice Centre/Zone. Details are explained here, please note you will be asked for some evidence to confirm the changes.


DCPUsing the ‘MYSELF’ system you will be able to amend your details as necessary, advice will beavailable on how to do this.



10.5 Communication

Please ensure that you communicate in a respectful, professional manner with each other, withmembers of staff and external organisations/individuals. In email correspondence, please be politeand avoid text language. Do not expect staff to answer emails immediately, particularly if you havesent them outside the normal working day. If you have not received a response within two workingdays, send a polite reminder.


Fire: If you discover a fire please activate the nearest fire alarm and leave the building via the nearestavailable fire exit. If the fire alarm sounds, do not stop to collect personal belongings, leave the building immediately viathe nearest fire exit. Do not use the lifts.

First Aid: If you require first aid please speak to a member of staff who will contact a first aider for you.

Accidents, injuries and near misses need to be reported and recorded through line-managers.

DCP Occupational Health Services provides access to a range of wellbeing services. All accidents andinjuries whilst on duty, need to reported and recorded.

Matters of concern: If you are concerned about a health and safety related matter please raise itthrough faculty staff or your course trainers. Concerns can also be raised with the Police Federationwho have appointed Health and Safety representatives across the force.

11. HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELLBEING


12.1 Student Support ServicesThere is a variety of specialist student support and facilities available to help you achieve in reachingyour academic and career potential:l Careers and Employability Service l Chaplaincy l Disability and Dyslexia Servicel Health Service l Sport Centre l Student Mentoring l Student Money Advice Teaml Study Skills Service l The Wellbeing Service

Further information can be found at: http://unilife.southwales.ac.uk/pages/3235

During your induction sessions, Devon and Cornwall Police will provide you with the wide range ofstudent and employee services they offer.http://intranet/supporthub/Pages/supporthub.aspx

Devon and Cornwall Police as an employer also have a reasonable adjustment procedure in placewhich may need to be utilised during the training stage. Any specialist learning needs identifiedduring initial assessment, such as dyslexia, are subsequently discussed with Head of Centre and theInternal Quality Assurer (IQA) and additional support provided to the learner. This could meanadditional assessor / tutor visits to allow for more time spent with learner. Also assessors shouldidentify the appropriate method of assessment for that learner to suit their requirements. This maytake the form of more observations and professional discussions as opposed to written personalstatements and assignments. These needs will be added to the learner’s Individual Development /Learning Plan. Our HR Specialist in Attendance & Performance management would be involved in anytesting or provision of reasonable adjustments that need to be made for a student officer. Any issuesthat are identified from either the USW procedures or DCP procedures will be shared between bothparties and any learner support plan that is required will be developed in collaboration with both theforce and the University and of course, the learner themselves.

Police Federation https://www.polfed.org/about-us/police-regulations/

Welfare Support Service; The service offers a 24-hour, 365 days a year telephone support line for youand your family where you can speak directly to our trained staff regarding the issues that concernyou; 01354 669749

The Devon and Cornwall Police Federation can be contacted on 01392 354770 Monday to Friday09.30-15.00. Outside of office hours an answerphone service is in operation. Our reps are still servingofficers so if there isn’t a rep available to answer your problem we will help you as soon as we can.

Send us an email or visit our website. You can also find us on Facebook or Twitter. Police Federation Office, 2 River Court, Pynes Hill, Exeter, EX2 5JL

12.2 Campus MapsThe training programme will be delivered at Police Headquarters, Middlemoor. The site map anddirections can be found at: https://www.bing.com/maps?&ty=18&q=Devon%20%26%20Cornwall%20Police%20Exeter%20Devon&ss=ypid.YN1029x104196348&ppois=50.71916198730469_-3.4781389236450195_Devon%20%26%20Cornwall%20Police_YN1029x104196348~&cp=50.719162~-3.478139&v=2&sv=1


12. GENERAL INFORMATION


12.3 Students’ Union The Students’ Union (SU) is all about representing you, so if there is something you need from adviceon casework to helping you settle in to university life, we will be there. Every student is a member ofthe Union, regardless of whether you are a full-time, part-time, undergrad or postgrad student. Fromactivities, events and venues to volunteering and skill-development, we strive to make sure you havethe chance to enrich every aspect of your student life. We support over 100 clubs, teams and societies,700 SVR and Course Reps and annually hold over 150 events at our venues. So whether you want todevelop your skills, become a representative on your course or socialise with friends, we’ve got it all.And because we’re for students, not for profit, we make sure every investment you make at your SU isput back into the things you care about most. Further information is available on the SU website:http://su.southwales.ac.uk/

Whilst you will be a student of the University of South Wales for the duation of your studies, you arereminded that as a Police Officer you should not engage in any political activity with regards to theStudent Union. (Further guidance, please refer to the Code of Practice for the Principles and Standards ofProfessional Behaviour for the Policing Professionn of England and Wales and Police Regulations 2003.)

12.4 Course Structure and Module Content (ICIS Database)

The Integrated Curriculum Information System (ICIS) database provides details of your coursestructure and module content. You are able to search for module and course specifications to provideyou with the necessary detail around your studies. The link to the database can be found at: https://icis.southwales.ac.uk/

12.5 Examinations

Examination information can be found at: http://sasstudent.southwales.ac.uk/examinations/

12.6 Results

Results information can be found at:http://sasstudent.southwales.ac.uk/onlineresults/grade/results/Result can be accessed on the following link: http://results.southwales.ac.ukInformation regarding how your degree is classified can be found within the University Regulations forTaught Courses listed under section A.2.9.5:http://asaqs.southwales.ac.uk/regulationstaughtcourses/



12.7 Graduation

Graduation information can be found at: http://sasstudent.southwales.ac.uk/graduation/

If you are in your final year and expecting to graduate this year, please note that invitations to thegraduation ceremonies are sent via email to your university email address and any personal emailaddress that is held on your student record. Please ensure that these are accurate and up to date. Youcan update your personal details online using Advice Zone Online, which can be accessed via theUnilife homepage: https://unilife.southwales.ac.uk/

To guarantee a place for you and your guests, please respond to the invitation as soon as possible andby the appropriate deadline. If you have not received an invitation, please contact the graduationoffice - do NOT wait until after your results. Students are invited 'in potentia’ so any student who isdeemed ineligible to attend the ceremony following the publication of results will be re-invited toattend the next appropriate graduation ceremony.

12.8 Thank You

Thank you for taking your time to read through this course handbook. We sincerely hope that youenjoy your time with Devon and Cornwall Police and University of South Wales on the Police ConstableApprenticeship Programme.

DCP and USW wish you the best of luck both as a student and in your policing career. We look forwardto sharing this experience with you.

Professional Policing Practice Team



Notes


