The NSW Police Force has welcomed 159 new probationary constables at the NSW Police Academy today (Friday 19 June 2020) at a private ceremony, to comply with COVID-19 restrictions.
Social distancing and mass gathering directions have been applied to the attestation of Class 341, with no members of the public or media able to attend.
Class 341 includes 117 men and 42 women who will undertake 12 months on-the-job training and complete the Associate Degree in Policing Practice by distance education with Charles Sturt University before being confirmed to the rank of constable.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott MP, wished the recruits well as they embark upon their chosen career in policing.
Mr Elliott said the brave men and women of Class 341, who will soon be assigned to Police Districts and Area Commands across the State, have completed their training during extraordinary times.
"These recruits join the strong police family of more than 17,000 officers at a significant time as the state continues to face a global pandemic," Mr Elliott said.
"I wish every single recruit my best wishes as they take their oath to proudly serve the community in what will be a rewarding, yet challenging, career. We owe each of them the greatest amount of respect and gratitude for their commitment to put themselves in harm's way to keep us safe."
Commissioner Mick Fuller was pleased to welcome the latest intake of probationary constables.
"I wish I could welcome Class 341 to the Force with a full attestation ceremony in front of their family and friends.
"Importantly, they will each be able to take their oath of office, which is one of the most important moments in every officer's career.
"All 159 men and women who attest today are a welcome addition to the Force. They will take their positions at the Police Area Commands and Police Districts as of next week and will play a significant part in driving down crime and ensuring communities are kept safe," Commissioner Fuller said.
Education and Training Commander, Assistant Commissioner Peter Barrie, welcomed the new recruits.
"The recruits in Class 341 have already shown tremendous resilience in overcoming significant barriers at the Academy during COVID-19.
"Students were required to limit movement and adhere to social distancing rules, and most were unable to go home and were restricted to the Academy.
"In attesting today, they have demonstrated the dedication and determination that they will need as they go on to serve the community.
"We have tried to make this event as special as possible within the limitations of the COVID-19 restrictions.
"The recruits are naturally disappointed that there will be no audience or parade but they are keen to commence duties," Assistant Commissioner Barrie said.
FACTS AND FIGURES ABOUT CLASS 341
A total of 159 recruits are being sworn in today.
The class comprises 117 men and 42 women.
The students will attest with the rank of probationary constable. Recruits will report to their stations for work from next Monday 22 June 2020.
They will then complete 12 months on-the-job training and study by distance education with Charles Sturt University. They officially graduate with an Associate Degree in Policing Practice once they have passed all academic and operation standards. The officers will then be confirmed to the rank of constable.
Of the probationary constables attesting today,140 were born in Australia and 19 were born overseas. Their countries of origin include Pakistan, Thailand, Wales, Lebanon and Canada.
Four officers are indigenous, with one recruit joining the NSW Police Force through the Indigenous recruitment pathway - IPROWD.
Class 341 comprises:
- 30 recruits aged 19-20
- 66 recruits aged 21-25
- 36 recruits aged 26-30
- 18 recruits aged 31-35
- 3 recruits aged 36-40
- 6 recruits aged over 40.
