Modiwl HPU-1020:
PCDA Police Constable Role
PCDA Cyflwyniad i Rôl y Swyddog Heddlu 2025-26
HPU-1020
2025-26
Ysgol Hanes, y Gyfraith a Gwyddorau Cymdeithas
Modiwl - Semester 1 a 2
30 credits
Module Organiser:
Steve Nash
Overview
This module will start with an introduction to the history of modern policing in England and Wales and help to develop a baseline understanding of how the service functions. The role that police services play in the working of the criminal justice system will be discussed and well as some very practical policing skills such as stop and search and powers of arrest.-History of policing in England and Wales -Principle of policing by consent -The role, responsibilities and powers of a Police Constable -The organisation of policing in England and Wales -The criminal justice system in England and Wales -The role of the police in criminal justice
Practically, students will learn core communication and problem-solving skills; examine core principles and ideas relating to working as a team, upholding professional standards and strategies for maintaining wellbeing and resilience. They will learn the basis for professional decision making in policing such as the national decision model, the use of discretion and the impact of bias on decision making.
Assessment Strategy
-threshold -Acceptable work = Grades D+ to D- Very little critical analysis of relevant academic literature, legislation and police procedure Limited use of relevant texts and academic literature (texts suggested in class) Heavy reliance on real world examples and experiences to illustrate theory in practice Limited but accurate use of citation and quotation
-good -Good work = Grades B+ to C- Some critical analysis of relevant academic literature, legislation and police procedure Use of relevant texts and academic literature (texts suggested in class) General use of real world examples and experiences to illustrate theory in practice Accurate use of citation and quotation
-excellent -Excellent work = Grades A* to A- Significant critical analysis of relevant academic literature, legislation and police procedure Use of relevant texts and academic literature (including the texts suggested in class + other students have found through independent study) Where relevant use of real world examples and experiences to illustrate theory in practice Accurate use of citation and quotation
Learning Outcomes
- Critically review the role of the police constable in relation to their powers and responsibilities.
- Employ strategies to develop resilience and maintain personal well-being within policing.
- Explain how to maintain professional standards in both a professional and personal context.
- Explain problem solving techniques and their application in the context of policing.
- Explain the professional importance of self-evaluation, self improvement and reflective practice.
- Explain the stages of the National Decision Model (NDM) and the flexibility of approach it provides Examine the role of discretion in the decision-making process.
- Explain the structure of the police service and the functions and the roles of members of the service.
- Explain the theories and models underpinning the causes of conflict within policing interventions and the importance of policing by consent in police practice.
- Review the fundamental elements of effective communication and how to optimise an exchange.
- Review the necessity for maintaining professional standards in policing, and relevant governance, roles and responsibilities .
Assessment method
Coursework
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
Workbook Assignment students will be given a series of questions in an online workbook format. The workbook includes a combination of questions that will test students’ comprehension of several aspects of the police constable role. This assessment relates to all learning outcomes. 1. Reflect on what motivates you to become a police officer? (Word Count: 250 words +/- 10%) 2. With reference to academic material, Outline the origin of policing by consent and what this means? (Word Count: 500 words +/- 10%) 3. With reference to the College of Policing website, explain what the Code of Ethics was designed to achieve. (Word Count: 250 +/- 10%) 4. With reference to Pepper et al. (2020), discuss the value of evidence to policing. (Word Count: 250 words +/- 10%) 5. Set out a research topic, three research questions, and consider the research methods you could use to answer your questions. (Word Count: 500 words +/- 10%) 6. Identify a piece of evidence-based policing and discuss its topic, research questions, research design, and main findings. (Word Count: 500 words +/- 10%) Further details and support will be provided in class. Deadline for submission of responses Friday Week 12
Weighting
100%
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
North Wales Police Closed Book Exam on initial law training
Weighting
0%
Assessment type
Crynodol
Description
Multiple Definitions Tests of 6 hours in total. These are organised by North Wales police and take place during initial training to test students understanding of the law.
Weighting
0%