NEOF - Recruitment process

The process of joining our Force as a New Entrant From Another Force (NEOF)

Ready to begin your career with the Ministry of Defence Police? Our recruitment process is designed to support previous or current officers to become an Authorised Firearms Officer Counter Terrorism. We'll guide you through each stage, providing clear information and support to help you prepare effectively for this exciting opportunity.

Stage 1: Eligibility

Serving officers or those who have left the service within the last 36 months are welcome to apply. While firearms experience is valued, full AFO training is provided to successful candidates.

Stage 2: Application request

If you consider yourself eligible to apply, you can now request an application by complete our application request form to determine if you meet our essential requirements for the role. If you're eligible, we'll send you a comprehensive application pack to begin your formal application process.

Stage 3: NEOF suitability interview and Job-Related Fitness Test

Upon notification that you have been successful at the sift stage, you'll be invited to partake in a suitability interview, with relevant information and guidance provided with your invitations.

The suitability interview is face-to-face, conducted at MDP HQ RAF Wyton (or alternative location as advised) with two assessors.

It will focus on your understanding of the force and the roles we undertake, your motivations for applying and you’re understanding and expectations of the impact the role may have on your personal life. It will also include questions around your skills and experience, the code of ethics, dealing with vulnerable people and safeguarding. The interview will last approximately 40 mins, and you may also be invited to undertake your Job-Related Fitness Test on the same day.

Stage 4: Medical, Fitness Test, National Security Clearance Vetting and Police Vetting

If you are successful at the NEOF interview stage, you'll be invited to attend a medical (and fitness test if you have not already undertaken it).

 Your national security vetting application for Security Check (SC) clearance will also need to be initiated and Police Vetting checks will be conducted. The recruitment team will guide you through this process.

If the post you will be offered requires Developed Vetting (DV) clearance, this will be initiated once your station allocations confirmed, and the SC has been granted.

Once you have successfully completed all the processes, you'll be ready for appointment (subject to vacancy availability).

Stage 5: Hire

After successfully passing the recruitment process, you will be offered a position as they become available.

Stage 6: Appointment and training

Once you have successfully completed the application process, you will receive an offer of appointment. Your first day as a Ministry of Defence Police officer begins at our training school, and as a Ministry of Defence employee, you'll receive your full salary from day one.

Following successful completion of training, all NEOFs are required to complete the remainder of a 12-month probationary period. 

Find Out More

Discover your training journey

Learn more about your development programme including NEOF training and specialist firearms training.