I chose the Level 3 Policing course because I’ve always wanted a hands-on career and policing has interested me for a long time.
I eventually want to join the police and work in the dog unit, so this course felt like the best route for me.
I did consider sixth form and animal management, but this course stood out because it prepares you directly for policing and gives you real, practical experience.
One of the most valuable experiences I’ve had so far was a live roleplay scenario based on a robbery. The situation involved a victim, an informant, a suspect believed to be carrying a knife, and an obstructive member of the public. We rotated roles, which meant I got to experience every part of the incident. I played the victim, where I had to give information to officers, the suspect, where I was handcuffed and searched, and the bystander, where I saw how officers deal with challenging behaviour.
Even though it was a simulation, it gave me a real insight into how officers handle incidents, especially when there is a potential weapon involved. It helped me understand how I would need to act as an officer and what policing looks like in real situations. The experience actually made me more motivated and excited about joining the police.
College life is very different from school. You’re given a lot more independence and you’re treated like an adult. The relationship with tutors feels more like what you would expect in a workplace, and the practical activities and trips make learning much more engaging. I really enjoy the hands-on training because it helps me understand what policing will actually be like, rather than just learning theory. After finishing the course, I plan to go straight into work and continue my journey into the police service.
