Last week, more than 400 officers graduated from Police Now's two-year National Graduate Leadership Programme and became members of the national alumni network.  

The diverse group of graduating officers – based across 18 forces in England and Wales – launched their policing careers in 2020, selected out of thousands of applicants to Police Now's two-year programme for their commitment to public service and their belief in the enormous positive social change that outstanding community policing can deliver.  

They have spent the last two years working as neighbourhood police officers, utilising their problem-solving and leadership skills to transform communities, proactively tackle crime and anti-social behaviour, and build public confidence in policing. Joining the service at a challenging time with the global pandemic and several high-profile incidents which brought much public scrutiny, these officers have already demonstrated unwavering commitment to policing. 

Across the three graduation ceremonies held this week (25th and 26th October) to mark the milestone, the officers were addressed by Assistant Chief Constable Matt Ward and Toni Long, Director of People and Organisational Development, both of West Midlands Police, as well as Superintendent Mark Runacres of Avon & Somerset Police and Police Now's CEO, Kurtis Christoforides.

Addressing the national cohort, Assistant Chief Constable Matt Ward, said: "It's a genuine pleasure and privilege to congratulate you all on your Police Now graduation today.

"You reflect the best of UK policing. Be proud of where you are and what you've achieved. Continue to be the leaders that you've already demonstrated you are. Treat everyone fairly, act with integrity and be prepared to stand up and always do the right thing.

"Never forget why you joined policing and the pride you felt when you put on your uniform on day one. Never forget the pride you rightly feel today as you graduate as substantive officers. I will watch your careers with excitement, pride and interest over the coming years, congratulations."

Two awards were presented at the ceremonies by Dr Michelle Rogerson on behalf of Police Now's academic partner, the University of Huddersfield:

• Police Constable Danielle Quentin, West Midlands Police: Best Impact Assignment
• Police Constable Lauren Schofield, West Midlands Police: Dean's Prize for Excellent Academic Achievement

In addition, several Alumni Impact Awards were presented to stand-out participants, nominated by their colleagues for outstanding contributions to policing.

These officers formed the sixth intake on Police Now's National Graduate Leadership Programme,