Training
Enforcement Academy (POST Basic Course)
Correctional Academy
Initial training overview
Enforcement (Patrol) | Custody (Jails) |
|---|---|
2-week Pre-academy Training and Orientation (80 hours) | 1 week pre-academy training and orientation (40 hours) |
Enforcement Academy (1040 hours) | Correctional Academy (648 hours) |
Court Training Program and Agency-Specific Classroom Training (320+ hours) | Jail Training Program and Agency Specific Classroom Training (800+ hours) |
Field Training Program including 2-week Classroom Orientation (680+ hours) |
|
2120+ hours | 1488+ hours |
Ongoing training overview
Enforcement (Patrol) | Custody (Jails) |
|---|---|
43+ Hours of Annual PSP/CPT Training (24 hours required every two years by POST) | 34+ Hours of Annual Training (24 hours required every year by STC) |
Annual training hours are 60+ for patrol teams. |
|
Training explained
Our Academy Training programs, offered through the Santa Clara Justice Training Center (JTC), include the Enforcement Academy (POST Basic Course), Correctional Academy, and Sheriff's Protective Service Officer Academy. These academies provide a strong foundation, instilling our core values and culture. They prepare personnel to serve the community with integrity, ensure the safety and well-being of those in custody, and protect county facilities and staff.
Each academy surpasses state-mandated standards and integrates specialized courses aligned with our Office's values, including Blue Courage: The Nobility of Policing, Crisis Intervention Training (CIT), Implicit Bias Awareness, Strategic Communications, and Advanced Public Safety First Aid and Medical Response.
Our training employs the latest in law enforcement training practices, using learner-centered methodologies such as scenario-based learning, written and practical assessments, and developing essential communication and leadership skills. Recruits also participate in a facilitated visit to the Museum of Tolerance to promote cultural understanding, compassion, and empathy. By combining advanced training techniques with our core values, we ensure our personnel are highly skilled and dedicated to serving with professionalism, integrity, and a strong commitment to community trust.
Enforcement Academy (POST Basic Course):
The Enforcement Academy is a POST-certified Regular Basic Course (Police Academy) in California. It is designed to prepare Sheriff's Deputy recruits and other law enforcement personnel for the demands of 21st-century policing. The academy offers a challenging, comprehensive training experience, both physically and mentally, that goes beyond state requirements to equip recruits with the skills, knowledge, and ethical foundation needed for modern law enforcement.
While California mandates a minimum of 664 hours of POST-developed training across 42 topics (called Learning Domains), our Enforcement Academy extends this to 1,040 hours. The curriculum covers critical topics such as:
Leadership, Professionalism and Ethics
Principled Policing in the Community
Victimology/Crisis Intervention
Introduction to Criminal Law
Officer Wellness
Laws of Arrest
Search and Seizure
Investigative Report Writing
Vehicle Operations
Use of Force/De-escalation
Patrol Techniques
Crimes in Progress
Domestic Violence
Critical Incidents
Missing Persons
Traffic Enforcement
Arrest and Control
Firearms/Chemical Agents
Information Systems
People with Disabilities
Cultural Diversity/Discrimination
The Enforcement Academy curriculum also incorporates many training topics consistent with our Office and County's philosophy, including, but not limited to, Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Training, Implicit Bias, and Active Shooter Response. The academy also emphasizes learning, applying, and understanding agency high-liability policies and procedures.
Enforcement recruits complete 1,040 hours of rigorous academy training—or approximately 56.6% more training hours than the state mandates—ensuring they are exceptionally prepared to navigate the complexities of modern policing with professionalism, strong communication skills, and a deep commitment to compassion and empathy as they protect our communities.
Correctional Academy
The Correctional Academy provides advanced, contemporary training that far exceeds the minimum standards set by STC for Correctional Deputies. While STC requires 187 hours of "core" training, our academy extends this to 648+ hours for all Correctional Deputy recruits. This extensive training enhances critical areas such as Defensive Tactics, Report Writing, Scenario-Based Training, De-Escalation, First Aid/CPR, POST Chemical Agents, POST 832 Laws of Arrest, POST PC 832 Firearms Training, Crisis Intervention Training (CIT), Use of Force, and agency and Consent Decree driven training topics.
A key focus of the academy is mental health training, which is integrated throughout the curriculum. Recruits receive over 70 hours dedicated to Interpersonal Communication, Crisis Communication, Suicide Prevention, Strategic Communication, and responding to individuals experiencing mental health crises.
Custody recruits complete 648 hours of rigorous academy training—or approximately 246.5% more training hours than the state mandates—ensuring they are exceptionally prepared to navigate the complexities of modern correctional environments with professionalism, strong communication skills, and a deep commitment to compassionate care.
Sheriff's Protective Service Officer Academy
The Sheriff's Protective Services Officer (SPSO) Academy prepares officers to secure and protect County-owned, operated, and administered properties while assisting the public and individuals conducting business at County facilities. SPSOs receive specialized training in de-escalation techniques, the enforcement of state laws and agency policies, and, when necessary, the authority to effect an arrest.
The SPSO Academy complies with PC 831.4 and integrates training mandated by POST, including PC 832 Laws of Arrest. It also incorporates the latest best practices for security personnel. The academy consists of seven weeks (280+ hours) of academy instruction, covering essential topics such as:
Leadership, Professionalism and Ethics
Criminal Justice System
Policing in the Community
Introduction to Criminal Law
Laws of Arrest
Search and Seizure Presentation of Evidence
Investigative Report Writing
Arrest and Control
Crimes Against the Justice System
Cultural Diversity/Discrimination
This comprehensive curriculum reflects the core values and philosophy of the Sheriff's Office and the County, ensuring that SPSOs are well-equipped to provide outstanding service and maintain a safe, secure environment for both the public and staff.
In addition to academy training, our Office requires comprehensive on-the-job training to ensure a smooth transition from the academy to active duty in the community, correctional facilities, and county properties. These programs begin with classroom instruction on agency-specific topics, such as Body-Worn Cameras, policies and procedures, software systems, reporting requirements, and our training philosophy and program structure. Following this, recruits work alongside a senior deputy who serves as a mentor, providing guidance and hands-on instruction to help academy graduates develop the skills needed to perform their duties confidently and effectively as solo deputies.
Court Training Program (CTP): After completing the Enforcement Academy, new Sheriff Deputies undergo one week of in-house training and an 8–10-week Court Training Program. This program provides hands-on experience in courthouse security, bailiff duties, inmate supervision, and legal procedures essential for protecting the state's court system.
Field Training Program (FTP): Upon graduating from the Enforcement Academy, new Sheriff's Deputies must complete a POST-approved Field Training Program. While POST mandates 400 hours, our program extends to a minimum of 680 hours, including two weeks of classroom and practical training. Each trainee is paired with a highly qualified Field Training Officer (FTO) responsible for mentoring, training, and evaluating the deputy's transition from academy and court assignments to solo patrol duties within the community.
Jail Training Program (JTP): New Correctional Deputies participate in one week of classroom training, followed by a 20-week Jail Training Program. The program pairs new deputies with experienced Jail Training Officers, providing daily evaluations and hands-on training at the Main Jail and Elmwood facilities. This structure ensures that deputies are well-prepared to perform their duties independently within the Custody Bureau.
Our Office provides ongoing, comprehensive training that exceeds state-mandated requirements for all sworn personnel. For the Enforcement Bureau, POST mandates that Deputy Sheriffs complete 24 hours of Continuing Professional Training (CPT) every two years, which includes a minimum of 18 hours of mandatory Perishable Skills in five key areas:
Category I | Tactical Firearms | 4 hours minimum |
Category II | Driver Training/Awareness | 4 hours minimum |
Category III | Arrest & Control | 4 hours minimum |
Category IV | Strategic Communications | 2 hours minimum |
Category V | Use of Force | 4 hours minimum |
Similarly, STC requires Correctional Deputies in the Custody Bureau to complete 24 hours of specialized or refresher training each fiscal year. The Training and Professional Development Division designs training plans for both bureaus following POST, STC, agency-specific training needs, consent decrees, and other regulatory requirements. These plans ensure that personnel remain fully compliant with legal and procedural updates and are prepared for the dynamic challenges they face in their respective roles.
Sheriff Deputies and Sergeants assigned to patrol participate in six 10-hour training days annually for the Enforcement Bureau. This training covers essential topics, instructed in a team model, including, but not limited to:
Perishable Skills
Case Law and Legal Updates
Defensive Tactics
Use of Force and De-escalation
Mental Health and Crisis Intervention
Firearms and Less-Lethal Munitions
For the Custody Bureau, Correctional Deputies and Sergeants attend two 12-hour in-person training days per year, focusing on the unique demands of the correctional environment. Training topics include, but are not limited to:
ADA Compliance
Suicide Prevention
Defensive Tactics and Ground Defense
Mental Health Response
Correctional Operations
Both bureaus must attend 4-hour firearms range training every six months to maintain proficiency. All sworn personnel must also stay current on First Aid, CPR/AED, and NARCAN for public safety, following Title 22 requirements. Deputies also complete online training via POST, County of Santa Clara platforms, and courses developed specifically for our office.
The Training and Professional Development Division delivers this ongoing training using highly skilled instructors and POST/STC-approved curricula. Content is continually updated to reflect new legislative requirements, emerging trends, critical incident debriefs, and agency-specific needs.
Advanced training for our personnel is a top priority, particularly for those in specialized roles or assignments. Advanced officer training supports specific assignments, professional and personal growth, and specialized skill requirements. Our agency actively instructs, hosts, and sends personnel to POST and STC-certified courses, ensuring that all training meets the highest standards in law enforcement and corrections.
The Training and Professional Development Division offers a comprehensive range of advanced courses for both enforcement and custody personnel, including:
Supervisor and Manager Updates
Internal Affairs Investigations
Active Shooter Response
Academy Instructor Certificate Course
Boating Safety and Operations
Field Training Officer (FTO) Updates
Less Lethal Weapons Training
Radar Operator Certification
In addition to agency-wide training, personnel assigned to specialized teams and units—such as Investigations, Special Operations, and teams like the Sheriff's Emergency Response Team (SERT), Emergency Response Team (ERT), and Crowd Control Unit (CCU)—receive additional training tailored to their specific duties and responsibilities. These specialized teams require ongoing, high-level training to ensure all members can effectively handle critical incidents and unique challenges.
By continually hosting, instructing, and facilitating participation in POST and STC-certified courses, the Sheriff's Office ensures its personnel are prepared to meet the evolving demands of modern law enforcement with professionalism, expertise, and a commitment to excellence.
Our Office fosters leadership at all levels and ensures career growth and professional development through comprehensive supervisory, management, and leadership training. Our Training and Professional Development Division provides essential training to prepare personnel for leadership roles, supporting immediate and long-term career progression.
As mandated by POST and STC, all sergeants are required to complete an 80-hour Supervisory Course. This training equips new supervisors with critical skills in areas such as accountability, conflict management, ethical decision-making, and team building, ensuring they are well-prepared to lead effectively.
Similarly, all Lieutenants must complete a 104-hour Management Course focusing on transitioning to middle management roles. Topics include strategic planning, fiscal management, personnel issues, and critical incident management. This program helps supervisors step into leadership roles with confidence and the skills needed to manage complex operations.
Beyond required training, the Office offers advanced leadership development through internal programs and external opportunities. By providing a structured, high-level approach to supervisor, management, and leadership training, the Sheriff's Office ensures its personnel are equipped to lead professionally, with integrity, and a commitment to excellence in public service.
As part of our commitment to personal and professional development, the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Office, in collaboration with the Deputy Sheriff's Association (DSA) and Correctional Peace Officers' Association (CPOA), offers pay incentives for deputies who pursue continuing education. This program encourages staff to enhance their skills and knowledge through pre-approved, job-related educational programs, including law enforcement and public safety training, higher education, and personal and professional development—all completed on their own time (off duty).
The Training and Professional Development Division administers the program, ensuring that all completed training is accurately tracked and reported. This initiative reflects our dedication to fostering career growth and supporting the ongoing development of our personnel.
Our Office prioritizes the wellness and resilience of its personnel, recognizing that officer well-being is essential for effective service and community trust. Our Wellness and Resilience Training begins pre-academy, preparing recruits for the physical and emotional demands of the profession. During the Academy, focused training addresses stress management, mental health, physical fitness, and emotional resilience.
Throughout their careers, personnel receive continuous support, guided by a dedicated Wellness Coordinator, with ongoing training and resources to promote long-term well-being. Additional programs, including Courageous Heart: The Human Behind the Badge, provide essential tools for personal and professional resilience throughout their careers.
Training Materials and Content
In compliance with SB-978 and our commitment to transparency, our Office provides access to training materials and content below. While we strive to update this information, archived or outdated materials will remain available in the portal and may not reflect the current training curriculum.