Future leaders graduate on Fast Track Constable to Inspectors programme

College of Policing CEO Chief Constable Andy Marsh has congratulated Fast Track Constable to Inspectors (FTCI) graduates from 33 forces and described the programme as a ‘launch-pad for the rest of their careers.’

During a special ceremony held in Ryton, 46 officers from Cohorts 6 and 7, who finished the programme in 2022 and 2023, proudly received certificates after successfully completing the talent development programme to support them on the path to senior leadership roles.

CC Andy Marsh praised graduates at the ceremony, and paid tribute to their enthusiasm, dedication, and drive. He said: “I was very fortunate to personally experience first class learning and development opportunities which helped me greatly throughout my career. Although this was not FTCI, a similar development scheme opened my eyes to the huge benefits which come directly from investing in learning.

“This leadership programme has given FTCI graduates direct exposure to how forces operate, and they will now have a much better understanding of their own individual strengths, what they enjoy doing, and how they can grow. This is the launch-pad for the rest of their careers, and they will flourish.”

The programme is open to talented constables who wish to reach more senior levels of leadership within the service. Candidates are recommended by their individual forces to attend a National Assessment Centre, before joining the programme.

During the programme, the graduates spent two years rotating through numerous roles in their forces and attending a number of mandatory College of Police modules. The new Inspectors will bring new perspectives and diverse skills to their roles, with the aim of making a positive impact on the management and future culture of the service.

Chris Coward, Talent Development Lead at the College of Policing, said: “The new application window for Cohort Ten will open this April, representing ten years of the Fast Track Constable to Inspector programme. Over five hundred officers have been successful at National Assessment Centre since 2014, and I’d encourage individuals who are interested to get in touch with their force Fast Track SPoC, or email talent@college.police.uk for more information.’’

The successes of the FTCI programme have been built upon in the design and development of a new Fast Track Inspector to Superintendent programme with the first cohort starting their programme in May 2024.

The selection process for Cohort ten of the FCTI programme opens next month (April 2024). Further details are available via the College of Policing website.