Jessica Charlton

It was when the team from Middlesbrough College visited her school that Jessica Charlton (right) learnt about the BTEC in Uniformed Protective Services. The course, which is a Level 3 Diploma/Extended Diploma qualification, combines classroom and vocational learning to set students up for university learning or public sector career opportunities.

“The course offers so much variety,” Jessica says. “Not only did our teachers serve as officers themselves, they arranged visits and workshops with the police, army and fire services at the College.”

The 17-year-old from Hartlepool has ambitions to join the police, and is especially interested in joining the dog unit or going into traffic and armed response.

“The format of the BTEC means we got to do a range of projects, including outdoor activities, fitness and wellbeing sessions, and theory learning to give us that detailed subject knowledge we need for a successful career.”

Now that she has secured a Distinction* in her BTEC in Uniformed Protective Services, Jessica is all set to take the next step into policing.

Course: BTEC in Uniformed Protective Services