When I considered my Post 16 options in 2003 I wanted to continue studying but in an area that had always interested me, where I felt the course would enhance my potential. I felt that the A-level route was not for me. I was always interested in the work of the public sector, especially policing and I became aware of the Public Services BTEC at Buxton & Leek College. I attended an Advice Day and spoke with some course tutors and I instantly felt comfortable and reassured that the tutors would be able to offer me the best teaching and support.
Whilst studying the course I enjoyed every aspect which included lectures in law from serving Police Officers to lectures from experienced Psychologists. We also had opportunities to take part in many visits and trips.
During the two years, the course increased my ambition to join the police but at this point I did not feel ready to apply. I felt I needed more life experience so I applied to University as I had the required grades from my College course. Applying to University was never something that I had considered but after researching courses and Universities, I thought this would enhance my employment opportunities and it would also be a personal life achievement. I graduated with a 2:1 which was a great achievement for me personally, and at this point I applied to join the Police but was unsuccessful.
After applying for other jobs I decided to apply to become a Special Constable. Within two months I was beginning my training and was soon putting my newly learnt academic skills and policing knowledge to the test. I spent three years as a Special Constable and experienced many different things from scene watches at major incidents, cell watches in custody, working on the safer neighbourhood team and with the response teams. This was my chance to gain some experience and insight into policing to see if this was the right career path for me and also to put my time into the local community.
In 2012 I applied to join another force as a Police Community Support Officer to work on neighbourhood police teams and support the community in reducing low level crime. I spent 12 months in that role and in that time I worked on the Queens Jubilee, the 2012 London Olympics, high profile visits from foreign dignitaries and assisted with missing persons enquiries. During that time I was applying to become a Police Officer with that force which I was successful in doing so and I began my training in 2013, exactly one year after becoming a PCSO.
I feel that the Public Services course prepared me to understand information that can sometimes be complex. The course also prepared me to produce good quality, precise written work which is vital in my role. I think most importantly the course prepared me to work in a team with different people who have different opinions and varying strengths and weaknesses and that is very important when working in the public services.
