TVP Specials on Blue Light courses

Specials at Thames Valley Police now have the opportunity to develop their skills on the road and gain a new tool in helping to protect our communities – response driving training.

The three-week course enables Specials to rapidly respond to incidents, supporting both their full-time colleagues and members of the public.

Officers who wish to take part in response driving training will need to meet specific set requirements – amongst these having successfully obtained DPS (Directed Patrol Status) and having met a minimum of 208 hours in the last year (18 hours per month) – be able to commit to taking part in the 3-week course at short notice, and have leave pre-approved by their regular employers.

Since the opportunity was made available, eleven Specials have successfully completed the training, with more booked onto courses.

Greig, a Special Sergeant based in Milton Keynes, was the first member of our Special Constabulary to complete the training, and discusses their experience below:

“On the first week of the course, I met my instructor and the other members of my cohort. Courses are usually one instructor to three officers. There was some basic paperwork to complete, and then we went straight into the learning!”

“We learned the concepts of road craft, vehicle control, road positioning, vehicle dynamics in corners, and more. Obstacle avoidance manoeuvres and an emergency stop at 90mph is certainly an experience!”

“The second week built on the skills we learnt from week one, but now incorporating emergency warning equipment. We spent the week driving on open roads in different settings and conditions, with two of the days taking place in the evening so that we could be exposed to the different challenges of response driving at night.”

“The final week involved building up more experience in varying conditions and assessment, with a trainer making sure that my driving is safe and meets the required competencies.”

The course has not only given me the skills and knowledge to drive police vehicles in a response situation safely and proportionately, but has also developed my own ability to be a better and safer driver.”

“I’m grateful to be the first Special to be offered this opportunity, and it’s an immense step forward in the continuing development and skill uplift of the Special Constabulary.”

Could you volunteer your time to help protect our communities across the Thames Valley? Learn more about our Special Constabulary, apply today, and do something special.

blue light driving response driving Specials