Class is back in session: BPS Citizens’ Police Academy is recruiting community members
The Brantford Police Service are recruiting community members who want to learn more about the day-to-day life of police officers. Registration for the BPS Citizens’ Police Academy is now open. Members of the public are encouraged to submit applications as soon as possible, as space in this program is limited.
The popular program will run each Wednesday from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., beginning October 22, 2025, to November 26, 2025. The deadline to submit applications is Friday, September 19, 2025
The Brantford Police Service are one of the first services in Ontario to offer this type of community participation through this free, educational program. The Citizens’ Police Academy was first held at BPS in 1999.
Running for six consecutive weeks, the BPS Citizens’ Police Academy is structured as a series of interactive, information-sharing sessions where participants will engage with officers to gain a unique perspective of the policing profession, and an understanding of the challenges and responsibilities officers of the Brantford Police Service face each day.
Whether a citizen is considering a career in law enforcement or is simply curious about the daily life of a police officer, the Citizens’ Police Academy is an excellent starting point. There will also be an opportunity for participants to provide feedback and suggestions to improve the Service.
On the final evening of the program, students will participate in a graduation ceremony and those who have attended all six sessions will be eligible for a draw to win a special Ride-Along experience with a community patrol officer, allowing for a firsthand opportunity to see policing in action.
The program covers a wide array of topics, including:
- Canine Unit
- Uniform Patrol
- Police training
- Forensic Identification
- Criminal Investigation - Major Crime
- Internet Crime and Safety
- Emergency Response Team
- 911 Communications Section (Dispatch)
- Traffic Unit / Motor Vehicle Collision Investigation
We are looking for mature, community-minded adults, 18-years-of-age or older to participate. Security checks will be completed before selection of the participants. Valid photo identification is also required and should be attached to the application. Applications can be submitted electronically to Constable Nick Lawson at nlawson@police.brantford.on.ca with the subject line “Citizens’ Police Academy.” Alternatively, applications can be delivered to police headquarters at 344 Elgin Street, Brantford.
Interested community members are invited to apply before the deadline of Friday, September 19, 2025.
More information about the program and online applications can be found here.