By Mark Cullen, 25/6/25
Students from various year groups gathered for an informative session held at our school, arranged by Jo Flanagan, the Year 9 form tutor and Humanities lead. The talk centred around the pressing issue of knife crime and the diverse career opportunities available within the police force, delivered by Officer Paula, a dedicated Youth Engagement Officer from Warrington.
Officer Paula's extensive background in law enforcement includes previous roles focusing on child exploitation working as a plain clothes officer. Her passion for helping young people was evident as she engaged with students from Year 7 through to Year 11, aiming to raise awareness about knife crime and the implications it has on society.
The session tackled a range of vital topics, including the alarming statistic of how many young people carry knives, and the motivations that lead them to make such dangerous choices. Paula discussed the law surrounding knife crime, providing clarity on what constitutes illegal possession and the serious consequences that follow. She explained the Stop and Search policy, enabling students to understand their rights and responsibilities when interacting with law enforcement.
Importantly, Officer Paula also highlighted the support systems available for young people, such as Crime Stoppers—operating under the ‘Fearless’ initiative—Childline, and Catch22. These resources offer crucial guidance for anyone who may find themselves facing adverse situations or needing help.
One of the most impactful aspects of Officer Paula's talk was her personal account of how she joined the police force. At the age of 24, after experiencing victimisation herself, she decided to make a difference by becoming a police officer. Her story resonated with many students, illustrating that the journey to serve and protect others often comes from a place of understanding and empathy. Paula emphasised that “no two days are ever the same” in the police force, reflecting the dynamic nature of policing and the variety of experiences it entails.
She also informed students about the numerous career pathways within the police department, such as serving as a response officer, joining the drone unit, or working in child protection. With a salary of approximately £48,000, excluding overtime, Officer Paula pointed out that policing not only offers competitive pay but also the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community.
As Officer Paula explained the educational requirements for aspiring police officers, she highlighted that a minimum of five GCSEs at grades A to C, including English and Maths, is essential. Additionally, at least two A-levels or equivalent qualifications are typically required. She encouraged students to consider subjects such as Law, Sociology, and Physical Education, as these can provide relevant knowledge and skills for a future in policing. While a degree is not mandatory, pursuing a degree in Professional Policing or enrolling in the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) could significantly enhance one’s prospects. The PCDA programme merges on-the-job training with academic study over three years, culminating in a degree in Professional Policing Practice.
Officer Paula's engaging talk not only illuminated the realities of knife crime for our students but also opened their eyes to the rewarding careers in policing. Her enthusiasm and dedication left a lasting impression, empowering our youth to consider their futures and the vital roles they can play in creating safer communities. We are grateful for Officer Paula’s time and insight, and we look forward to more such enlightening sessions in the future.
