Garda College

The Student/Probationer School

Student Gardaí are inspected every week in what as known as "parade"

The Student/Probationer Education,Training & Development Program is a 2 year course leading to a BA in Policing Studies (Level 7).

The training seeks to develop the behavioural patterns and competencies which are necessary for a member of An Garda Síochána.

The Student/Probationer Programme allows students to:

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the contemporary police role
Develop the ability to be an effective and efficient Police Officer in a democratic society
Exploit their own talents and potential

The Programme comprises 5 phases as follows:

Phase 1 - Primary Orientation Phase

This phase takes place at the Garda College and is 20 weeks long.

Phase 2 - Broad Experiential Learning Phase

This phase is conducted at specially selected designated training stations under the supervision of the local Divisional Training Staff. It lasts 22 weeks.

Phase 3 - Competency Development Phase

This phase is 16 weeks long - 12 weeks at the Garda College followed by 4 weeks orientation at Phase 4 station. The subjects covered are a continuation of those covered in Phase 2.

Phase 4 - Experiential Learning Phase

This phase is 38 weeks long during which the students work and record their learning outcomes. Students also complete a dissertation as part of their Degree in Policing Studies.

Phase 5 - Graduation Phase

This phase lasts 4 weeks and takes place at the Garda College. The students have now completed all exams required for their BA in Policing Studies, and this phase is considered a ‘polishing off’ period, during which they can further develop the skills and competencies acquired during Phase 4. The phase concludes with a formal Graduation Ceremony at the Garda College.