22nd May 2024
For over two years, aspiring individuals in Devon seeking to launch their policing careers have thrived under a successful programme designed to lay the groundwork for outstanding law enforcement careers.
Bicton College, part of The Cornwall College Group (TCCG), has been providing its Policing Diploma since September 2022. This initiative has nurtured more than 40 students with remarkable talents, boasting a 100% pass rate and generating numerous success stories.
From mastering handcuffing techniques and analysing staged crime scenes, to collaborating with police dogs and gaining insights from industry experts; these dynamic experiences ensure that learners are well-prepared for rewarding careers in their chosen fields.
Students Kenzie Trisk-Grove and Candy (Surname), both enrolled in the Level 3 Police Diploma at Bicton College, have expressed profound enthusiasm and passion for their studies.
“I’ve always wanted to be in the police, more specifically dog handling. After finishing my course at Bicton College, I want to do a degree apprenticeship with Devon and Cornwall police,” expressed Kenzie.
“The College has been great because they offer so many different pathways, including policing. What’s more, the majority of our tutors specialise in these fields, bringing decades of inspiring experience and invaluable industry contacts,” he continued.
For Candy, the course has not only boosted her confidence but also propelled her to pursue her passion: “I aim to join FSG (Force Support Group) in the future, and I feel like Bicton College is preparing me for this by providing the hands-on tools to help me progress.”
Candy added: “I went to South Dartmoor Community College and initially considered Exeter College. However, after visiting Bicton College for an Open Day, I realised how much more of a hands-on experience it offers. The staff, coming from police or forces backgrounds, teach us what they’ve learnt over the years and even organise exclusive trips to experience all aspects of policing.”
Stu Cavin is a programme lecturer at Bicton and former Detective Chief Inspector for Devon and Cornwall Police. Stu has an impressive career history including dealing with major crime, surveillance, counter terrorism and crime scene investigation.
Al Knight is the Study Programme Manager and started his law enforcement career with five years as a RAF Police Officer. Al then joined Devon and Cornwall Police serving 27 years in uniform as a first responder. Al specialised as a Dog Handler and also led Dog Unit teams as a Sergeant in Devon. He has trained numerous dogs and handlers to the required standard so that they could serve their local communities.
We have forged fantastic industry relationships with local Policing teams to enable learners to experience Armed Response, Crime Scene Investigation, Police Dog Teams, Riot Training and regular engagement with student Police Officers in training scenarios.
A Police Inspector in charge of Police training recently visited Bicton College and said,
‘Some of these students are at a higher level than some of my student officers.’ This is high praise indeed and demonstrates the value of the Police Diploma at Bicton College.
To find out more about courses available at Bicton College, visit the website.
