Thirty-eight new recruits were sworn into their roles at Staffordshire Police at a virtual attestation ceremony yesterday.

Deputy Chief Constable Emma Barnett oversaw the ceremony, which sees the new officers read their attestation pledge.

In the presence of Magistrate Carol Colclough, the officers received their policing powers.

The latest intake includes two transferee officers from other forces and 36 student officers who will start their Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA).

The new recruits will get on-the-job training and education through a three-year programme being delivered by the force and Staffordshire University. They will work towards a degree in professional policing practice.

After nine weeks of masterclasses and supported online learning, the new officers will join teams across the county to carry on their training and complete their apprenticeship. This includes rotations lasting eight weeks.

In 2019, Staffordshire Police entered into a six-year partnership in with Warwickshire Police, West Mercia Police, West Midlands Police and Staffordshire University, who will deliver the course and qualifications for the four forces. In Staffordshire, the degree will be funded by Staffordshire Police via the national apprenticeship levy. This allows student officers to earn a degree 'on the job', with a starting salary of £21,000 which avoids building up any tuition fee debt.

Ongoing assessments and reviews are included with support being provided by a tutor at the university and their own personal police tutor whilst on deployments.

Since June 2019 the force has recruited more than 250 student officers.

DCC Barnett said: "The attestation is an important occasion for officers and it was a huge pleasure to welcome them to the force – virtually on this occasion! I wish them all the very best for their future careers with Staffordshire Police.

"This new route into policing is designed to equip officers with the skills they need to tackle issues, such as prevention, early intervention and problem-solving skills, and serve communities to the best of their abilities."