The assessment process assesses candidate's potential to perform the role effectively. It is a rigorous, standardised process involving the observation of performance across a variety of exercises. Candidates undertake the same exercises nationally.

The exercises include:

• two interactive role play exercises, lasting five minutes each.
• two written exercises, lasting 20 minutes each.
• a competency-based structured interview, comprising four questions, lasting 20 minutes in total.

Performance is assessed by trained assessors using nationally developed competencies relevant to the role (a competency is a group of behaviours which are necessary for effective performance).

Recruitment processes like this have consistently been found to provide the most valid predictions of workplace performance. All candidates attending the PCSO assessment process should be familiar with the following pre-read materials:

• The Westshire Centre Welcome Pack - Download
• Information for Candidates - Download

How to Apply

If you want to become a PCSO contact the recruitment department of the force you would like to join. They will send you an application pack.

You can also check for vacancies and request an application pack online by visiting the 'How do I apply?' section of the Police Could You? website.

The application pack contains an application form and a competency-based questionnaire, which asks you to provide details about your relevant experience. You should complete and return these to the force. If your application is successful you will be invited to attend the PCSO Assessment Process. 

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Candidate Guidance

All relevant information will be posted to you at least two weeks prior to the date of your PCSO Assessment Process. You will be provided with details of how your assessment will be structured and background material relating to the exercises.

You will be assessed on how well you demonstrate the competencies required to perform the role effectively. These competencies have been established through national research with existing Community Support Officers.

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Help with Disabilities

If you believe that you have a disability which could disadvantage your performance, you may be eligible for assistance via our 'reasonable adjustment' policy. Please inform the force to which you are applying as early as possible.

If you have a disability such as dyslexia, the force will ask you to submit a specialist's report outlining the nature of your disability and any recommendations for reasonable adjustments. We will use this report to make a decision about whether you are eligible for adjustments during the assessment.

A copy of our reasonable adjustment policy can be downloaded from the link on your right hand side.

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Assessment Site Questionnaire

The content and delivery of the PCSO Recruit Assessment Process is continually evaluated in order to further improve and develop content and delivery. 

Candidate Feedback Questionnaire
If you were a candidate at a recent assessment centre click here to complete the questionnaire.

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Results and Feedback

After the PCSO Assessment Process is complete, you will be provided with comprehensive written feedback about your performance. This is intended to highlight your existing strengths and developmental needs.

The report will provide detailed feedback about:

• Whether or not you were successful.
• How well you performed in each exercise.
• How well you performed in each competency area.
• How well you performed compared to other candidates taking part in the same assessment.
  

Candidates wishing to query their results or the marking of the PCSO Assessment Process should contact the force recruitment representative. Please note that the NPIA does not handle appeals or enquiries directly from candidates.

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