The Force Working Group on Mentor Police Constable (PC) Review conducted four Focus Groups on June 25 to collect feedback from all Districts about a pilot scheme named Project Rookie. Twenty three Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) and 24 serving Tutor and Mentor PCs took part in the Focus Group discussion.

With the aim of enhancing on-the-job training for newly passing-out PCs, the Project Rookie was piloted in New Territories North Region in mid-2017 and was extended to a number of Districts of other land Regions in the first half of 2018.

The Focus Groups generated constructive discussion among the attendees on a wide range of topics, including selection and appointment, training, recognition and motivation, and human resource management planning. The measures that were tested in the pilot scheme, such as the selection of mentors, revised Learning Log and specific duties assigned to NCOs, Assistant Divisional Commanders (Operations) and Training and Staff Relations Officers, received positive comment. Many practical suggestions have been incorporated into the Working Group's final recommendations.

With the overwhelming support from the frontline, the Working Group is taking steps to present the final recommendations to senior management of Districts and Regions as well as staff associations. Subject to the Senior Directorate Group's approval, it is anticipated that the new Mentor PC Scheme will be rolled out in the fourth quarter of 2018.