Curriculum Information

In this module student will demonstrate operational competence that evidences that they are operationally competent in the role of a Police Community Support Officer. This is achieved by evidencing competence in the 10 assessment criteria outlined in the College of Policing Operational Competence Portfolio that meets the national sector standard.

During the Operational Learning phase students will cover key elements of the role including communication skills, decision making and dealing with the individual needs of victims and witnesses. Through the use of discussion, role play and case studies students will examine their responsibilities and identifying good practice on how to identify the different categories of witnesses, achieving best evidence and providing safeguarding and support where needed.

Through the use of blended learning techniques such as discussion fora, flipped classrooms and recordings, students will also consider the purpose, processes, responsibilities and correct use of information and intelligence. Students will examine the issues that can arise when data management protocols are not adhered to and review the rights of the individual in respect of information held about them.

Students will then be afforded the opportunity to apply these skills in the workplace under the guidance of an operationally competent tutor that has completed the relevant training to the required sector standard. Students will deal with numerous and varied incidents that have been carefully selected to promote learning in a risk managed environment. Tutors will provide regular feedback and encourage self-reflection from the student to identify competence and opportunities to develop.

College of Policing PEQF PCSO Curriculum areas covered in this module as per the College of Policing PCSO National Policing Curriculum Mapping Spreadsheet

Understanding the Police Community Support Officer Role OLP1
(Curriculum Learning Outcome 7)
(Minimum Content 7.1 – 7.4 inclusive)

Managing Conflict OLP1
(Curriculum Learning Outcomes 1-4 inclusive)
(Minimum Content 1.1 – 4.5 inclusive)

Vulnerability and Risk OLP1
(Curriculum Learning Outcome 12)
(Minimum Content 12.1 – 12.3)

Supporting Communities and Partnership Building OP2
Foster effective partnerships in community policing
Curriculum Learning Outcome 4)
(Minimum Content 4.1 – 4.4)

Public Protection OLP2
(Curriculum Learning Outcomes 4-6 inclusive)
(Minimum Content 4.1 – 6.5)

Response Policing OLP2
(Curriculum Learning Outcomes 1-2 inclusive)
(Minimum Content 1.1 – 2.12)

Dealing with Minor Crime OLP2
(Curriculum Learning Outcomes 1-2 inclusive)
(Minimum Content 1.1 – 2.3)

(for full details of curriculum minimum content see V.5 Feb 2021) of the mapping spreadsheet
https://www.learn.college.police.uk/Course/Details/29808

Operational competence assessment criteria covered in this module

Full Operational Competence Assessment Criteria
I. Operate in accordance with the law, Authorised Professional Practice and the Code of Ethics
II. Provide an initial response to policing incidents
III. Engage with the community
IV. Information and Intelligence
V. Use PCSO powers
VI. Foster and promote partnership working in community policing
VII. Manage conflict in a professional policing context
VIII. Engage in problem solving and evidence-based policing
IX. Deal with minor crime or anti-social behaviour (ASB)
X. Provide support to vulnerable people, victims and witnesses