Meet Polly McFarlane, an Access to Higher Education (Policing) student!
After leaving school during the COVID pandemic, Polly wasn’t sure what she wanted to do next. However, one thing she did know was that she was ready for something new – and a career in the police had been on her mind for a long time.
Fast forward to today, with the end of her Access to Policing course in sight, Polly can’t wait to see where a future career in the Police will take her!
Polly said: “The Access course has massively helped me build my confidence and shape clear career goals.
“When I first joined the course, I wasn’t exactly sure which area of policing I wanted to go into. However, the further I’ve got through the course, and the more branches we’ve covered, the more everything has started to fall into place. I’m beginning to put a strong idea together about my future, and I’m so excited.
“The course gives you fantastic exposure to the different roles available in the police, and the more experience I’ve had, the more it’s helped me question and understand what I want to specialise in.
“I’ve thought about dog handling and child protection services, but last week we did a crime scene investigation practical, which gave me such a brilliant insight into that side of the job!
“You really learn a lot about yourself on this course – how committed you can be, and just how much determination you have.
“I’ve gained so many valuable life skills, and incredible insight into what a career in the police could like for me. It’s such an exciting career to go into, and this course has really shown me what you can achieve when you put your all into something.
“The course itself is brilliant, and the tutors are fantastic. They’re so relaxed, friendly, approachable, and easy to talk to. Plus, they have loads of industry experience, which is so valuable when it comes to truly understanding what this career path involves.
“Because the teachers have worked in the industry, you learn so much from their experience and stories. Every time we cover a new branch or aspect of policing, the teachers have been able to give us special industry insight. They share the the possibilities of what could go wrong in certain situations and what you can achieve when things go right. You really get a real, genuine understanding of the ins and outs of everything.
When asked if she would recommend this course to others, Polly didn’t hesitate:
“Absolutely. I’d recommend it to anyone interested in a career in the police. Middlesbrough College is the best place to study this course, especially because of the amazing teachers and their direct industry experience. You learn so much!”
Thinking about a career in the police?
Our Access to Higher Education (Policing) qualification is designed to help you build the knowledge, confidence, and real-world skills you need for a wide range of job roles in the police.
Take your first step today by exploring our Access to Policing course, or for explore our full range of Access courses to find your perfect career path!