Tom Afford

Tom has never wanted a 9-5 job, for him a career in the Police Force is much more appealing. He’s currently working in the Special Constabulary in Northampton and will complete a qualification at University, after which he’ll be a fully fledged officer!

‘For as long as I can remember I have wanted to be a Police Officer. I needed a course that would give me an insight into the Police Force, and the National Diploma has been great for that. The best thing is that the teachers have all spent time working in the Forces themselves, so have first-hand knowledge of what it’s really like, and they’ve got some great stories that always make the lessons interesting and fun.’

Tom always wanted to be in the Police, but enjoyed learning about all the Armed Forces and Emergency Services. ‘It’s been great learning about all the different disciplines – the course has given me a valuable overview of the Uniformed Services. It’s made me realise my future lies with the Police Force.’

Tom is now going on to University to study a Foundation Degree in Police & Criminal Justice. ‘I’ll be learning as well as continuing my work with the Special Constabulary. After the two years, I’ll hopefully get a place in Northamptonshire Police – and I plan to top up my Foundation Degree on a part-time basis to a full degree. There’s so many different opportunities within the Police Force – from road policing to working with the dogs unit – but I’m really not sure what path I want to go down at the moment. I’d love to work my way up through the ranks.’

Tom West

Tom has never wanted to work in an office – a career in the RAF or the Police Force is much more appealing.

‘I’ve got family in the forces and I’ve always thought it seemed like an exciting career choice. I wanted a course which would give me an insight into the military and the National Diploma has been great for that. The teachers make the lessons as fun as possible and because they have all worked in the forces, they are in a great position to make it interesting. They can tell you about their real life experiences.’

In the second year Tom went on a number of trips and expeditions. ‘We went to Belgium to join in a World War 1 remembrance parade, that was really interesting. We also went to visit the Marines for the day to learn about their weapons, equipment and fitness regimes, that was a tiring but fascinating visit. Another trip was a 30km trek in the Pennines. We had to work in a team and we learnt lots of useful expedition skills.’

Tom is hoping to become a Traffic Cop in the future. ‘I want to travel to America first, after that I’ll apply to the Police and hopefully begin my career.’

Lee Harding

Lee completed the BTEC National Diploma in Public Services with distinction and merit grades. He is now working as a Military Policeman in the RAF, a job he absolutely loves.

Lee enjoyed most aspects of the course, especially the many trips and expeditions. He uses a lot of what he learnt during his time at college in his role in the RAF. ‘Most of the people I work with have all done the same course at other colleges nationwide which goes to show it’s a reputable qualification, recognised by employers. If you’re after a career in the services, this is the ideal route to take.’