The NSW Police Force welcomes 192 new probationary constables at the NSW Police Academy today (Friday 9 October 2020) at a restricted attestation ceremony.
Social distancing and mass gathering directions have been applied to the attestation of Class 343, with no members of the public or media able to attend.
The 130 men and 62 women of Class 343 will undertake 12 months of ‘on-the-job’ training and will also complete the Associate Degree in Policing Practice with Charles Sturt University before being confirmed to the rank of constable.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott, joined Police Commissioner Michael Fuller to welcome the new recruits to the Force.
“I congratulate each of our newly attested police officers as they commence active duty at police stations across the state,” Mr Elliott said.
“During the floods, fires and now the COVID-19 pandemic, frontline police officers have taken on an unprecedented role in protecting the community.
“This Government is committed to recruiting more officers and supporting serving police officers as they put their lives on the line to keep us safe.”
Commissioner Fuller said the newest recruits have achieved an important and memorable milestone in their careers.
“I recall my own attestation and remember my pride in taking the Oath of Office. Class 343 attest in a very different time, and they will face their own challenges in their careers,” Commissioner Fuller said.
“Our newest recruits have already displayed the willpower and strength of character to make it to the parade ground today. These are traits that will serve them well, as they serve the community.
“After completing eight months of foundational training, our new recruits will now sign on as probationary constables at police commands and districts across the state.”
Assistant Commissioner Peter Barrie, Education and Training Commander, congratulated the new recruits who have completed their training at the Goulburn Academy during COVID-19 restrictions.
“I have been impressed by the perseverance of Class 343 who have been required to adapt and learn in challenging circumstances,” Assistant Commissioner Barrie said.
“Unfortunately, we cannot acknowledge these efforts with a full attestation ceremony because of COVID-19 restrictions, but this does not diminish the achievements of these officers.”
FACTS AND FIGURES ABOUT CLASS 343
A total of 192 recruits are being sworn in today.
The class comprises 130 men and 62 women.
The students will attest with the rank of probationary constable. Recruits will report to their stations for work from Monday 12 October 2020.
They will then complete 12 months of ‘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 operational standards. The officers will then be confirmed to the rank of constable.
Of the probationary constables attesting today, 169 were born in Australia and 23 were born overseas. Their countries of origin include India, Cambodia and Zimbabwe.
Class 343 comprises:
- 21 recruits aged 18-20
- 99 recruits aged 21-25
- 39 recruits aged 26-30
- 20 recruits aged 31-35
- 8 recruits aged 36-40
- 5 recruits aged over 40.
For interview requests with recruits going to specific areas, please contact metropolitan police area commands or the relevant regional media officers. Recruits will start duties at their respective police stations from Monday 12 October 2020.
