Training difference? Compliance Caseworker VS FIS Criminal Investigator (duration/assessments type/difficulty of course)

The training for a Compliance Caseworker and an FIS Criminal Investigator differs significantly in terms of duration, structure, assessment methods, and complexity, reflecting the distinct nature of the roles.

Compliance Caseworker – Civil Compliance Foundation Learning (CCFL)

• Structure: The CCFL programme is delivered in three stages:
• 1. Induction & Introduction – Covers the basics of compliance work through online and manager-led learning, supported by a case study.
  2. Tax Technical Learning – Tailored to the specific taxes or duties relevant to the role, with increasing application to real casework.
  3. Business Area Integration – Learning continues within the business area, with practical application of skills.
• Assessment: Learning is blended and ongoing, with a focus on applying knowledge to real-world compliance cases. There is no formal qualification at the end, but progression is based on performance and development within the role.

Duration: The timeline is flexible and varies depending on the business area and pace of learning, but it is generally shorter and less intensive than criminal investigation training.

FIS Criminal Investigator – Criminal Investigation Foundation (CIF) Programme

• Structure: The CIF programme is more intensive and formalised:
• • 17-week structured learning (over ~20 weeks total), including:
  • • Self-study modules (SWAYs)
    • Digital and face-to-face classroom training
    • Practical exercises
  • Followed by an on-the-job Training Assessment Period (TAP) with support from a Practical Training Officer (PTO).
• Assessment: Trainees are continually assessed throughout the programme and must complete either the:
• • Accredited Counter Fraud Specialist (ACFS) qualification, or
  • Counter Fraud Investigator Apprenticeship, depending on their route.
• Difficulty: The CIF programme is more demanding, both academically and practically. It includes legal knowledge, investigative techniques, and evidence handling, and prepares individuals for criminal investigations under PACE (Police and Criminal Evidence Act).
• Duration: The formal training and TAP period span several months, with a clear qualification outcome.

I have a query regarding the Criminal Investigator training at HMRC:

• Would having Police Officer training and knowledge of PACE (Police and Criminal Evidence Act) be considered beneficial for this role?
• Additionally, does the training involve sitting GCSE-style exams or formal assessments?

Thank you for your questions,

1. Absolutely.  The training and knowledge would be highly advantageous for the role

2. Candidates that join us as an entry level Criminal Investigator, who do not have a level 2 (GCSE) qualification in Maths and English, would be offered the opportunity to gain these, funded through the training programme.

Completion of the criminal investigator training programme(s) is reliant on candidates demonstrating evidence against set standards, which, are regularly assessed through a formal assessment framework.

Thanks for reply. That's great.

Hi Awais.

I can see Bal’s already responded – thanks Bal! Just to add:

• The training is very practical and immersive. Trainees are assessed not only on written work but also on how they apply their learning in real-life scenarios, such as arrests and interviews. These are observed and formally assessed to determine competence.
• The duration has recently increased to around a year, giving trainees more time to build and demonstrate the full range of skills required to become a fully qualified Criminal Investigator.
• Those with Police experience or PACE knowledge often find they can adapt more quickly to the demands of the role.