"I joined the ACDP as an external applicant, having graduated with an honours degree in business studies. Following my initial two-year police probation I completed the Diploma in Police Service Leadership and Management, which makes you eligible to be considered for promotion. Soon after this I was promoted to Temporary Sergeant and am currently working with an operational uniform team.  

In my short service I have gained experience in a number of different areas of policing including the Criminal Investigation Department, Community Policing and Roads Policing. I have learned a lot from this broad exposure and feel that each new challenge continues to help me get the best from myself.  

The most important advice I can give anyone thinking of joining the ACDP is to maintain a positive attitude and sense of humour and stay true to who you are. Remember it is those around you who are vital to your success – you cannot make it there alone…oh and never be afraid to ask for help!"

"I was thirty two years old when I joined the police, having completed my degree some years before my application. I did not initially apply for the ACDP but decided to go for it during my police probation. After this period I sat and passed the internal qualification to be considered enable me to be eligible for promotion.  

Since entering the Programme I have gained a wide variety of extremely valuable experience in many different roles including attachments to the Scottish Crime and Drug Enforcement Agency and the Special Branch. I have found the ACDP to be challenging and rewarding in equal measure with each learning curve presenting new insights and an opportunity to further develop my skills.  

I would recommend the Programme to anyone who is prepared to give the extra effort in order to get the extra reward. You are entitled to three applications for the ACDP so if you don’t initially succeed, learn from the feedback and keep on trying."

"I applied for the ACDP as a Sergeant with fourteen years police service. I am now an operational Inspector leading and managing a team of thirty Constables and five Sergeants who work from twelve stations and a custody centre.  

The Programme provides great opportunities to focus your personal aims and objectives to assist you realise your full potential. To reap the greatest reward, you will have to continually stretch yourself and be prepared to take operate outside the comfort zone.  

My advice to anyone considering applying for the ACDP would be to twofold. Firstly, USE the Programme, don’t just be ‘on it’, if you are up for a challenge then you’ll get the best out of it. Secondly, prepare to be tested. You will have to work hard, and you are expected to excel, but that should help drive and motivate you to achieve your goals."

 "I applied for the ACDP with six years police service having worked as a constable both operationally and in other areas. After successful completion of the selection process I was promoted to Sergeant. I currently work as an operational patrol sergeant and find the role to be highly challenging, with decision making and leadership qualities being fundamental to the post.  

The programme has been extremely beneficial in helping me to develop my potential and I am confident that it will continue to assist my professional and personal growth in both the short and long term.   

I would encourage anyone looking to push themselves to apply for the ACDP, whether they are looking to join the service via this pathway or are already within the police, regardless of their service or rank. No application is wasted as the selection process will assist you learn more about yourself and areas on which you can aim to further build upon."