New course launched on “Understanding PCSO powers”

The Department for Policing have recently launched Understanding PCSO powers, a new course on OpenLearn, The Open University's free online learning platform.

Written by Simon Hull, a Lecturer in Work Based Learning in the Department for Policing. The course takes around six hours to study and is based upon content taken from the Level One module BXY138 Professional PCSO practice (work-based learning), part of the Police Community Support Officer Apprenticeship (PSCO-A). 

Learners will explore the powers that PCSOs in England and Wales use in their daily duties, their role in supporting response policing, and the fair and unbiased exercise of their powers and procedures. Upon completion, learners will have an enhanced understanding of this vital role in community safety and will be able to download a free certificate to show that they have completed the course.

The award-winning OpenLearn is the home of free learning from the Open University. With over 15,000 hours of online courses and content available to all, absolutely free. The site attracted 9.2 million visitors in 2023, giving learners the opportunity to explore a range of subjects, and build skills and confidence.

Access Understanding PCSO powers and explore many other policing related free learning materials from the OU.