Protect the Public with Training in Police Foundations Police Foundations is a term that encompasses a wide range of career options within the realm of public safety — whether through policing, being a security guard or working as a customs officer. Centennial College's twoyear police foundations program works with students to prepare them for these careers (and more) via a paramilitary style of training. With a clear focus on developing discipline and deportment, Centennial's Police Foundations program is well respected. Students are thoroughly trained through the paramilitary environment as well as courses that are based on reallife experiences and case studies that incorporate a fundamental perspective on the field. Some of the various courses students take during the Police Foundations program include: Canadian Criminal Justice System, Principals of Ethical and Moral Reasoning, Issues and Diversity, Criminology for Policing, Conflict Management and Use of Force. These and other wellrounded courses prepare graduates for entry into security and related occupations or to pursue the additional training that is specific to careers in various police and military environments. A highlight of the program is the Police Prep component that prepares students for all the required testing to become part of Canada's police force. So what knowledge do students boasts upon finishing the police foundations training? They are well prepared to document, organize, and assist in the presentation of court cases in compliance with criminal and provincial law, rules of evidence and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. They also are well versed in initiating, promoting and facilitating partnerships to meet community policing and security needs and making sound decisions based on evaluation. Students also gain a fundamental knowledge of concepts in political science, law and legislative policymaking and public administration to the provision of police services. With this sound training and the experiences of real life simulations, graduates of the Police Foundations Program can apply for positions as police officers or customs officers and security guards. This program will definitely launch their careers as problem solvers who have the ability to help people in their communities. Police Foundations training is taken very seriously. Therefore, requirements for admission into the program are extensive and specific. Not only do applicants have to present at minimum an Ontario Secondary Diploma or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older, but they must also have compulsory English 12C or U credits or skills assessment or equivalent. English proficiency will also be considered and a program information session may be required. Applicants should also know that some program experiences might require a criminal reference check.
There are also standard policing requirements that students must meet for a career in this field. Students must have no criminal record, as good moral character and habits are essential. Applicants for police services careers in Ontario must be able to pass a security clearance, background investigation and credit and reference checks. A valid driver's license with a clean driving record is also required. First aid and or CPR certification is necessary as well. Physically, the applicant must have his or her vision checked (requirements vary between agencies), possess standard normal hearing, be physically fit and ready for the Physical Readiness Evaluation for Police (PREP) test. These prerequisites are set in place to ensure that only the most dedicated applicants are put through to the Police Foundations program and embark on a the very important career of ensuring the safety of the community in which they work. For full details, please check out Centennial College’s Police Foundations Admission Requirements.