New national tutor constable learning programme now available

A new national tutor learning programme is now available to all police forces across England and Wales. It offers a standardised approach to developing the tutors who shape the next generation of officers. You can access the programme on College Learn (you will need to log in) by typing 'tutor learning programme' in search to see the programme resources.

Tutor constables play a vital role in developing new officers, yet the training they receive currently varies significantly between forces. Some forces have invested significant time and effort creating their own tutor programmes, but the approach varies. This means tutors across the country are not being consistently prepared for the full scope of their role or to the same standard. Good tutoring support is essential for workplace learning and has a major impact on how new police officers experience their early days in policing.

We asked over 1,000 tutor constables what they thought. 89% said that tutors should meet minimum standards before they take on this role. Tutors know that good mentoring needs the right skills and knowledge, not just experience on the job.

A ready-made solution

The College's tutor learning programme provides forces with a comprehensive, off-the-shelf package that can be implemented immediately. Rather than developing training from scratch, forces can access resources that align with national standards for trainers.

This approach has clear benefits:

• saves time and resources that would otherwise be spent creating bespoke training programmes
• develops tutors to the same standards across all forces
• helps forces with existing training check how it meets the national standard
• prepares tutors for all aspects of their role

Better support for new officers

Learning with a tutor on the job is one of the most influential elements of initial learning for new officers. It's a formative period requiring individualised support and expertise. 

Through the programme, tutors will develop knowledge and skills in learning, assessment, and creating supportive learning environments. This equips them to maximise each new officer's tutoring phase, embedding professional confidence and high standards from the start of their career.

The tutor learning programme is designed to create a more consistent approach to officer development across policing.

Find out about being a tutor constable