The first recruits to join up under a new direct entry scheme introduced for the Royal Navy police have completed their initial training at HMS Raleigh.
The five recruits were part of an entry of 51 trainees who undertook the standard 10-week basic induction course designed to give sailors the skills they will rely upon throughout their careers.
The course culminated with the passing-out-parade when the successful recruits were inspected by Lieutenant General Richard Nugee, Chief of Defence People.
Lt Greg Fergus-Hunt, the project lead for the scheme, said: “The Royal Navy Police direct-entry scheme has been introduced to supplement the normal sideways entry, which is open to volunteers from all specialisations, via a selection process.
“A training package has been designed for the new entrants to give them some in-depth professional sea training in preparation for spending time on a warship.
“They will then join the sideways entry candidates to complete their Royal Navy Police Course, before progressing on to their Leading Rates Leadership Course, after which they will be fully trained and ready to take their place within a unit or at sea.”
The Royal Navy Police provide a wide-ranging policing and investigative service to the Royal Navy at home and abroad.
Their main effort involves conducting criminal investigation along with providing operational policing support to the Fleet worldwide, with many RNP imbedded in various units across the globe.
Every new recruit is enrolled on an advance apprenticeship in policing.
Entry qualifications for the direct-entry scheme is available on the Royal Navy recruitment website.
Principally candidates must be aged 21 – 37 and have GSCEs in English and Maths.
The direct entrant recruits were among a diverse group of trainees some of whom are destined for careers as engineers, logisticians and medical staff, including two qualified mental health nurses.
Lieutenant General Nugee is the senior personnel officer for the Ministry of Defence. Appointed to the role last May, he is responsible for setting the strategy to develop a capable and motivated military and civilian workforce.
During a full day at HMS Raleigh he was given a brief on the range of training provided at the base.
He was also shown some of the facilities available for training and was able to witness some of the latest recruits undergoing instruction in the gym.
