Senior police officers plan, organise, direct and co-ordinate the resources and activities of a specific geographical or functional area of generalised or specialised police work. Senior officers of the British Transport Police direct the specialised police service for the railway network across Britain.
Promotion to the rank of inspector can be by qualifying examination. There are no qualifying examinations to ranks above inspector; promotion is by selection only. There are accelerated promotion schemes available. All police forces have age restrictions and medical requirements.
Please note all college campuses close for the Christmas break at 12pm on Thursday 11 December 2025 until Monday 5 January 2026.
During the closure, you can still contact us for general enquiries on weekdays from Friday 12 December until Friday 19 December. Our lines will be open between 9am – 4pm during this period, with an earlier finish of 12pm on Friday 19 December.
Should you need any advice or guidance over the Christmas break all key contact information and local support services below.