Sessions with forensics and scenes of crime officers and the firearms department were enjoyed by 13 young people during a week-long work experience placement with Hertfordshire Constabulary.
As part of Work Experience Week 2023, the group consisted of students aged 15 to 17 years old from schools all over the county, including Harpenden, Stevenage, Welwyn Garden City and Bushey.
The teenagers arrived at the University of Hertfordshire in Hatfield for an induction on Monday, June 5, before attending police headquarters in Welwyn Garden City, where they toured the Force Communications Room (FCR).
It is here where all of the county’s 999, 101 and online crime reports are received.
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Later that day, they were presented with a jewellery heist scenario which allowed the group to engage in report taking, call handling and dispatching.
Throughout the week, the students were given the opportunity to see everything policing has to offer.
They had sessions with the firearms department, road policing unit, forensics and scenes of crime officers, operational support unit, the dog unit, and the National Police Air Service (NPAS).
They also had the chance to participate in an officer safety training session.
Sergeant Kaji Tully Green, who coordinated the week, said: “We were delighted to welcome this year’s students to the constabulary.
"As one of the county’s largest employers, we’re proud of the programme, which exhibited many exciting career pathways from forensic scientist to force controller and homicide detective.
"We wanted to demonstrate that no matter your interests or needs, we’re dedicated to being an inclusive employer.
“The constabulary plays a huge role in our community, and we touch the lives of thousands, yet our relationship with that community has seldom been so strained.
"Whether the students choose a future with us or not, we hope to bridge the gulf between young people and their police service and through that, build trust.”
The students ended the week with a barbecue and awards ceremony when they were presented with their certificates.
The feedback from the pupils was extremely positive. One said: “It was a very enjoyable and interesting week, not only because of the people who came to speak to us about what they do in the police but also because of the people who staffed the placement.
"It was also way better than any other placement I could have done, they gave us lunches, certificates and goodie bags. From the placement, I now feel that when I am older, I would like to possibly pursue a career as a detective.”
Another student added: “It was extremely fun and informative, and I got a feel for life as an officer. I feel like police work may be a potential career I will choose.”
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