Meeting new expectations in policing

The Police Federation of England and Wales (PFEW) is the staff association representing 150,000 police officers and special constables. In a fast-evolving policing landscape, where public expectation and political scrutiny are intensifying, the role of police officers—and those who support them — has never been more demanding.

The workforce must be skilled, agile, and properly supported and to assist this, the PFEW took a transformative step in the professional development of its representatives through a groundbreaking partnership with The Open University.

Dr Jennifer Norman, Head of Department for Policing at The Open University said: “The Open University contributes to the work of police agencies as they adapt to changing policing expectations. This vast experience through our evidence-based, flexible teaching and the work of the Centre for Policing Research and Learning, means that we are ideally placed to provide training across country and understand and meet the needs and requirements of PFEW.”

Growing demands and expectations

PFEW plays a critical role in supporting our members and advocating for their needs. As the demands on police officers have grown, so too have the expectations placed on representatives. The skills required today cannot be left to chance — professionalism, credibility, and consistency are vital.

To address this, PFEW wanted to introduce a nationally recognised, externally validated qualification—developed in collaboration with The Open University — that formally recognises and enhances the knowledge, skills, and behaviours of our current and future Federation Representatives.

What was delivered

The Level 7 Postgraduate Certificate in Advanced Professional Practice will begin accepting its first cohort following the conclusion of the 2025 PFEW elections. This two-module programme is the result of extensive collaboration, development, and academic approval, ensuring it is fit for purpose and aligned with PFEW’s 2028 Strategic Vision.

Dr Sean Bell, Lecturer in Policing Organisation and Practice at The Open University, and David Bamber, Learning and Development Lead at PFEW, have worked closely to ensure that the curriculum meets the real-world needs of Federation work and the challenges members face.

Jo Lambert, Teaching Director for Policing at The Open University, notes that “this collaborative approach to qualification design offers a unique opportunity that is both professionally relevant and personally transformative, enabling individuals to shape their development through applied learning and support a wider culture of professional growth in policing.”uccessful completion of both modules will result in the award of the Postgraduate Certificate in Advanced Professional Practice—a first for the Federation and a major milestone in its commitment to professional excellence.

Mukund Krishna, CEO of the Police Federation, said “This accreditation programme is not just about individual achievement; it is about strengthening the Federation as a whole. By investing in our representatives, we are investing in our members, and by extension, the public they serve. This initiative underscores our continued commitment to putting members first, enhancing professional credibility, and ensuring that PFEW remains a relevant, forward-thinking organisation at the heart of UK policing.”