Probationer training for neighborhood policing in England and Wales: fit for purpose?

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to apply a consensus‐based definition of the adult‐learning theory of andragogy to police probationer training in England and Wales and to identify whether the requisite learning outcomes, when aligned to a community‐oriented policing strategy, are adequately addressed by the current police training methodology.Design/methodology/approach – The reasons behind the new approach to police probationer training are identified with reference to British government literature. Proposed revisions to the structure of the training regime are identified, taking cognizance of the community‐oriented neighborhood‐policing strategy advocated by the British government. Six criteria of a consensus‐based definition of the theory of andragogy are applied to the police model of training to establish whether or not it conforms to true andragogical principles. Furthermore, the proposals for a revised probationer program are examined to identify whether the training methodology and curricul...