GMP Apprentice Programme Impresses Ofsted Inspectors

The results of GMP’s first-ever Ofsted inspection have now been published with the force receiving the positive grade of ‘reasonable progress’ in all three areas of the monitoring inspection.

Emma Ashworth, GMP’s Director of People and Development, said: “Ofsted carries out monitoring visits to all newly directly funded providers of apprenticeship training provision.

“We are proud to have achieved a positive grade in all three areas in our first Ofsted inspection.

The apprenticeship team are delighted with the inspection outcome which reflects all the hard work that has gone into this new offer and our aim now is to continue to improve and develop our apprenticeship provision at GMP.

Greater Manchester Police’s Apprenticeship programme, launched in March 2022, provides opportunities for Customer Service Practitioner and Business Administration positions.

Apprentices gain experience working within the force, as well as advice and guidance toward future careers in areas that may interest them. Part of the process includes employment workshops where they are supported with CV writing and job applications.

Erin Murray, age 22, started as a Customer Service Apprentice and substantively moved into the Crime Recording Resolution Unit in November 2022.

Murray said: “The apprenticeship has provided me with a fantastic opportunity to develop in my role.

“It gave me a great foundation to build on and boosted my confidence early on. If I ever found myself feeling confused or uncertain, I knew I could ask my trainer or supervisor for advice- no matter how silly the question felt.

“I have really enjoyed my time working in the Crime Recording Resolution Unit and have no plans to leave anytime soon. However, one day I hope to work in the Crime Investigation Unit as my current role has sparked an interest in the investigative side of the law.”

Ashworth added: “The Apprenticeship programme has been designed in conjunction with key people such as previous apprentices, supervisors, and the delivery team to ensure it is sufficient in meeting expectations.

“The delivery team and trainers are GMP staff and have worked in the force for a considerable amount of time and therefore have experienced what it is like to be a GMP employee. This experience enables the trainers to provide a valuable learning experience to those new to the force.”

Comments within the inspection report include: “Leaders and governors are ambitious for what staff and apprentices can achieve. They use a range of measures to ensure that apprentices benefit from high-quality training to achieve their next steps and improve their employment opportunities with GMP.

Leaders check apprentices’ progress through effective weekly monitoring. Trainers, apprentices and their supervisors work together to plan and develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours that apprentices need to be successful at work”

The full inspection report is now on the Ofsted website.