The Ontario government is increasing enrollment in the Basic Constable Training (BCT) program at the Ontario Police College (OPC).
Starting in 2025, the BCT program will accommodate an additional 80 recruits per year, with priority being given for small, medium-sized and First Nation police services, Provincial officials say.
The expanded enrollment will bring the total number of officers trained per year to 2,080.
“Our government is bringing much needed relief to police services that face the most recruiting challenges,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner, in a media release.
“By expanding the BCT program, we’re making sure they get the qualified candidates they need to keep their communities safe.”
Last year, the Ontario government eliminated the tuition fee for the BCT program and established four intakes per year at the OPC.
Provincial officials say the BCT program is the initial training program that all police officers in Ontario must complete, as required under the Community Safety and Policing Act, 2019 (CSPA).
BCT includes courses in federal law, provincial law, traffic law, human rights, diversity and professional practice, leadership, ethics, mental health for first responders and for people in crisis, physical wellness and fitness for duty, community safety, defensive tactics, use of force and de-escalation techniques, firearms, and officer safety.
All law enforcement officers complete mandatory training on human rights and systemic racism, multiculturalism in Ontario and policing in First Nation, Inuit and Métis communities, Provincial officials added.
“The decision to expand the Basic Constable Training program at the Ontario Police College by an additional 80 recruits each year is a clear recognition of the growing needs of police services across the province. For services in smaller and medium-sized communities, as well as First Nations police services, this initiative is a game-changer. As the President of the Police Association of Ontario and a proud member of a mid-sized police service, this announcement will provide a greater ability to put more boots on the ground, where we know they are needed most,” stated Mark Baxter, President, Police Association of Ontario, in a press release.
More details, here.
