More officers are set to join the ranks of sergeant after their exam results were confirmed.

Weeks of waiting ended today when the College of Policing emailed the results of the first stage of sergeants exams.

The College thanked officers for taking part in an online assessment that was created from scratch in the Spring because restrictions on gatherings meant physical exams had to be abandoned.

Deputy Chief Executive, Deputy Chief Constable Bernie O’Reilly, said: “The College developed the online exams as an emergency measure to protect health and allow forces to continue to operate during the pandemic.

“We are extremely grateful to officers, police forces and staff associations for their continued input and support around the delivery of the exams.”

Forces revealed they had achieved successes with many officers clearing a major hurdle to promotion.

Leicestershire’s Chief Constable Simon Cole revealed his force had gained a significant number of passes.

“Congratulations to the 71 colleagues from who have passed the Sergeants examination, 22 of whom were graded exceptional.”

The challenges of balancing study, family life and the demands of the job had been heightened by policing the lockdown and taking part in an online exam.

But the relief at ending the wait was clear.

PC Jonathan McDonald, a Roads Policing Constable with Essex Police said: “Pleased to say after many years of stress, worry and upset I passed.”

Another shared: “So, so proud of myself.... I PASSED Sgts exam, whilst on maternity leave with a toddler AND 7 week old baby!!! I put in so many hours and felt like I fobbed my toddler off... but ultimately it’s for them. I’m leading by example and want them to be proud.”

Supt Miles Otway of Sussex Police revealed one candidate had finally got the result after years of failed attempts.

He shared on social media: “Just spoke to one of my officers who has managed to pass their Sergeants exam after 16 years of trying.... I am so chuffed for him.”

Senior officers shared in the celebrations with their officers.

DCC Claire Parmenter of Dyfed Powys Police said: “Huge congratulations to the officers that have passed their sergeants exam today ! Some excellent results and some talented leaders for the future. Llongyfarchiadau pawb.”

Feedback from this round of exams will go into a wider review on how the online assessment process has worked as the tipping point has been effectively passed over online tests so the process will likely continue after the COVID-19 crisis is over.

DCC O’Reilly said: “Officers have once again shown great resilience in face of difficult circumstances and have performed well in the exams.

“While it has been a long-term goal of the College to deliver exams online, we will continue to evaluate the outcomes from this emergency response and work with police forces and other stakeholders to determine the best way of delivering exams in the future.”