Recruits complete Basic Constable Training from Ontario Police College
Ontario is welcoming 403 new recruits to its police force.
The recruits are part of the Basic Constable Training (BCT) class of 2021. The training is provided by the Ontario Police College (OPC).
“On behalf of the Ontario government, I would like to congratulate all 403 recruits today,” said Solicitor General Sylvia Jones. “It took a lot of hard work and determination to achieve their goal, especially during these unprecedented times. Throughout their training, these new police recruits have shown strength, resiliency and character, and these qualities will serve them well as they begin their service as peace officers in Ontario.”
During their training, recruits learned how to prevent crime, assist victims, maintain public order and respond to emergencies. They will also continue to learn at their respective police services in communities across the province, according to the government.
In March, Ontario also hired 91 new correctional workers who were added to the frontlines. In January, the province announced it is providing probation and parole officers in the North with an additional $85,000-worth of new safety devices for use when travelling to and through remote regions.
Of the 403 new police recruits, the average age is 28 and 92 per cent have completed post-secondary education.
The OPC is one of the largest police training facilities in North America with an average of over 8,000 recruits, police officers, and civilian personnel attending each year.
The OPC has been training new police hires since 1962. Since September 2018, 3,431 recruits have completed the program.
