What we're looking for

You do not need previous policing experience to join us. We welcome applications from people from all backgrounds, experiences and stages of life.

Whether you're changing careers, leaving education, returning to work or looking for a fresh challenge, we'll provide the training, support and development you need to succeed. There is no single background that makes a great police officer. Some of our officers join directly from education, while others bring valuable experience from careers in healthcare, customer service, retail, hospitality, transportation, the military and many other professions.

What matters most is your integrity, commitment to helping others and willingness to learn. If you care about people, enjoy working as part of a team and want to make a difference, we'd love to hear from you. While every day brings different challenges, successful officers are often people who communicate effectively, remain calm under pressure and can build positive relationships with people from all walks of life.

Key Qualities Include

• Strong communication skills
• Sound judgement and problem-solving ability
• Empathy and emotional resilience
• The ability to build trust and remain calm under pressure

Police Constable Entry Programme (PCEP)

Successful candidates will join the Police Constable Entry Programme (PCEP), British Transport Police's two-year entry route for new police officers.

You do not need a degree to apply and you will not be required to complete a degree as part of the programme.

PCEP combines classroom learning, remote learning, scenario-based training and practical operational experience to equip you with the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed for frontline policing.

During Training, You'll Learn How To

• Use policing powers lawfully and effectively
• Prevent and investigate crime
• Protect vulnerable people
• Respond to incidents and emergencies
• Support victims and witnesses
• Keep passengers, railway staff and local communities safe

As your career develops, you'll have opportunities to specialise in areas such as CID, Counter Terrorism and County Lines. Whether you aspire to become a detective, join a specialist unit, develop as a leader or continue building expertise in frontline policing, we'll support your ambitions every step of the way.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible to apply for the Police Constable Entry Programme (PCEP), you must have:

• Level 2 qualifications in English Language and Maths (GCSE Grade C/4 or above, or an accepted equivalent qualification), or be willing to undertake BTP's Level 2 English and Maths assessment if you do not currently hold these qualifications; and
• Either:
  • Hold a Level 3 or above, or
  • Have relevant work experience demonstrating an equivalent level of knowledge, responsibility and professional capability.

If you do not currently hold a Level 2 qualification in English and/or Maths, British Transport Police can provide an assessment to enable you to demonstrate the required Level 2 standard as part of the recruitment process.

Examples Of Level 3 Qualifications Include

• Two A-levels at grade E or above (or equivalent, such as a BTEC Level 3, Level 3 T Levels or International Baccalaureate).
• BTEC National Diploma
• NVQ Level 3
• Access to Higher Education Diploma
• Other recognised Level 3 qualifications

Policing experience

At least 12 months' relevant experience, including service as a Special Constable (independent patrol status), PCSO and staff.

We recognise that qualifications are only one measure of potential. If you do not hold a Level 3 qualification, we may consider relevant work experience as an alternative route into policing.

Relevant work experience (24 months service) in one of the following areas

• Armed Forces / Military service
• Emergency services (e.g. ambulance, fire)
• Revenue Protection Officer / Revenue Inspector
• Railway Enforcement Officer
• Rail Incident Response or Service Delivery Management roles

Candidates will be required to provide evidence of their qualifications and/or experience during the recruitment process.

You Will Not Be Eligible To Apply If

• You do not hold Level 2 English Language and Maths qualifications (GCSE Grade C/4 or above, or an accepted equivalent qualification).
• You cannot demonstrate either a Level 3 qualification or relevant work experience equivalent to Level 3.
• You have been unsuccessful following your application, testing or interview for Police Officer, Special Constable or PCSO and have not yet completed the three-month reapplication period.
• You have been declined/refused vetting in the last two years by BTP or any other police force, NCA, CNC or MOD.
• You have ever received a custodial sentence, including suspended sentences.
• You have previously been dismissed from another police force or are subject to a live misconduct investigation.
• You are bankrupt, have a County Court Judgment, or an unmanaged Individual Voluntary Arrangement.
• You have tattoos deemed offensive (face and neck tattoos are considered on a case-by-case basis).
• You do not have permanent right to live and work in the UK.
• You have not resided continuously in the UK for the past three years.

Want to apply?

Applications are completed online.

As part of the process, you will be required to complete a Situational Judgement Test & also an Ethic Situational Judgement Test. If you do not pass the SJT assessments, your application will not progress at this time, though you may reapply once the reapplication period allows.

You are encouraged, though not required, to attend a question-and-answer session to learn more about the role, life at BTP and the recruitment process.

Please note: This campaign is for new recruits only. Transferees should apply through a transferee-specific vacancy when available.

Successful applicants will join a conditional offer pool and be considered for opportunities for up to 12 months from the date of their conditional offer.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and able to thrive.

We believe our people are strongest when they reflect the diverse communities we serve, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and lived experiences.

Whatever your background, identity or experience, you'll be supported throughout the recruitment process and throughout your career with British Transport Police.

Reasonable adjustments are available at every stage of the recruitment process.

Use of AI in applications

AI can be a useful tool for generating ideas or helping structure written responses, but