A group of Telford College students have graduated from the town’s ‘Citizens’ Academy’ which has given them a valuable insight into the work of the local police.

The 10-week programme was a collaboration between the college and West Mercia Police, and gave a group of the college’s public uniformed services students chance to find out more about aspects of modern policing.

The evening sessions covered a broad range of topics including the work of response officers, cyber crime, the role of the operations communications centre, and a look at some of the specific challenges of policing in Telford.

They also turned the spotlight on policing of local highways, forensics, the role of the CID, stop-and-search, plus firearms and police dogs – and included a visit from Police Constable Neil Armstrong, who brought along a police search dog.

Run by Sergeants Matt Hartley and Chloe Jones, the Citizens’ Academy has been declared a huge success, and plans are already being developed to repeat it in September.

Telford Safer Communities Chief Inspector Rich Bailey attended the college to present certificates to students at an end-of-course presentation evening.

Craig Stockman, Telford College public uniformed services tutor, said: “This has been a superb experience for our students, and a perfect opportunity for them to gain evidence for their future career ambitions.

“The aim of the Citizens’ Academy was to open up communication between the community and the police, educate the public about police procedures, reduce the fear of crime and increase personal safety.

“It’s a win-win situation, because we want to give our students as much hands-on, practical experience as possible – and hearing directly from the local police about their fascinating and varied roles is incredibly valuable.”

He added: “The programme has given members of public, including our public services students, an in-depth insight into the working practices of West Mercia Police.

“The participants received detailed input on the complexity of modern policing in areas from criminal investigations to firearms. There has also been input on partnership working from the Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service.”

• Enrolment is now under way for the Telford College’s next public services courses, starting in September. For details, click here