Mental and physical preparation prior to the recruitment process will ensure a greater chance of being chosen to join the Hong Kong Police Force, who will be taking applications for police inspectors, police constables and auxiliary police constables at the Career Forum.
“Applicants should regularly read the newspapers to broaden their horizons and enhance their critical thinking,” says a spokesperson from the police’s recruitment division. “They should also strengthen their physical fitness, because police work is physically demanding.
“Being a police officer is more than just a job. We serve and protect our community, so recruits need to be physically and mentally ready for training.”
During the recruitment process, applicants are critically assessed on several levels. These include their personality and values, sense of responsibility and motivation, communication ability, judgment, confidence, and leadership potential. Their general knowledge and physical fitness are also evaluated.
Graduates interested in the position of inspector should note that the police has no preference for specific degrees – any bachelor qualification from a Hong Kong university or equivalent is suitable.
“Any earnest persons meeting the entry requirements, which include academic qualifications, language proficiency, fitness standards, and sharing the force’s values to serve the community, are welcomed,” says the spokesperson.
In terms of language requirements, candidates need to pass both Chinese and English language proficiency tests.
Certain physical attributes must also be fulfilled. Male candidates should be at least 163cm tall and weigh 50kg, while female candidates need to be at least 152cm tall and weigh 42kg. Candidates are also required to pass an initial eyesight test.
Those that make the final cut will receive instruction at the School of Foundation Training in Aberdeen, where newly recruited inspectors undergo a 36-week basic training course and constables are in training for 27 weeks.
Training for police inspectors and constables covers communication skills, laws, police procedures, firearms and tactics, and physical training. Instruction for inspectors focuses more on leadership and management skills.
The spokesperson says students who are keen to carve out a career in the police need to have strong determination.
“To be a police officer, you should have a clear goal and be mentally and physically prepared for challenges. Police work is challenging, but rewarding.
“With preparation and determination, you can succeed. And by joining hands with the public, we hope to maintain Hong Kong as one of the safest and most stable societies in the world.”
