“It is a big moment”
The next class of EPS cadets felt out of their comfort zone on training night. The source of concern? A mixture of inanimate objects that make up the dreaded A-prep test.
“It is a big moment,” said Constable Amy Humphreys.
The A-prep test is a series of physical challenges that must be completed in a certain time. It is mandatory and one of the primary hurdles for all hopeful EPS recruits.
“We're exposing our cadets to the physical fitness component of our application process so that they can better prepare themselves and understand better what it takes to be a police officer,” added Humphreys.
Drills and protocol are one thing but this is the test that most Cadets are worried about. It’s not a “do-or-die” type of situation yet, but they also know this is the test that could make or break their policing dreams.
“It’s a little bit nerve wracking because obviously I want be a police officer…I mean, if I do bad, I know what to improve on. If I do good, well, we're on the right track,” said Natalya Rouse.
On this night, the time standard was two minutes and 15 seconds, and participants also had to wear weighted belts. Cadet Bijed Ters barely missed the mark.
“It was hard. Yeah. Very challenging. The belt added a couple extra pounds, which is not something that I'm used to for sure…I missed it by five seconds. So, by next time I'm going to hit it.”
Cadet Tehya Dickson was exhausted after her run through the A-prep, but appreciated the experience.
“I'm really glad they do this. It shows everybody's, it puts everybody to a certain standard that they all have to meet, and I think that's really good.”
The A-prep test doesn’t allow for excuses and it’s also a unifying for these young cadets who face the challenge together.
“They will help each other through everything…Their personalities, their commitment to the program, their team at work, their leadership skills. It all is setting them up for success in a policing career,” said Humphreys who added there are definitely future police officers in the