Ontario Expanding Basic Constable Training Program

Province getting more boots on the ground in small, medium-sized and First Nation communities

October 09, 2024

Table of Contents

  1. Content
  2. Quick Facts
  3. Quotes
  4. Additional Resources
  5. Related Topics

TORONTO — 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. 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. “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.


Quick Facts

  • 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.

Quotes

“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.”

– Mark Baxter
President, Police Association of Ontario

“The expansion of the Basic Constable Training Program at the Ontario Police College is a significant investment by the Government of Ontario in the public safety of communities. Adding an additional 80 recruits per year, including prioritizing places for small, medium-sized, and Indigenous police services, will have a very positive impact on the safety and well-being of all Ontarians.”

– Deputy Chief Roger Wilkie
President, Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police

“The Aylmer Police Service welcomes the Ontario government’s initiative to expand the Basic Constable Training program. By prioritizing seats for small and medium-sized services and First Nations police, this expansion will significantly enhance our ability to maintain staffing levels and service delivery in our community. In smaller services, staffing shortages are felt exponentially. With this initiative I am certain our staffing needs will be able to be maintained moving forward. On behalf of the Aylmer Police Service, we welcome and appreciate this announcement and investment in small and midsize police services.”

– Kyle Johnstone
Deputy Chief of Police, Aylmer Police Service

“Expanding the Basic Constable Training program is not just about increasing numbers; it’s about investing in the future of policing in Ontario. At the London Police Service, we know firsthand how crucial it is to have well-trained, committed officers who reflect the values and needs of our communities. This initiative strengthens our ability to serve London with professionalism and care, and I’m especially encouraged by the focus on smaller and medium-sized services, as well as First Nations policing. It shows a real understanding that community safety isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s about delivering tailored, thoughtful solutions for every part of our province.”

– Thai Truong
Chief, London Police Service


Additional Resources

Ontario Police College


Related Topics

Law and Safety

Ontario’s laws and related information about our legal system, emergency services, the Ontario Provincial Police and victim services. Learn more