As part of our Personal Development Programme, known as The Pledge, students have had the exciting opportunity to take part in a Police Recruitment and Careers Talk delivered by representatives from Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and the Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) team. The session proved to be both engaging and highly informative, giving students a real insight into the wide range of careers available within the police service.

The event was led by Lee and Gordon from GMP’s Positive Action Team, alongside Emma and Natalie from CSI, who shared their experiences of working in different areas of policing. They spoke passionately about the diverse roles within GMP – from frontline policing and community engagement to the more specialist areas of investigation and forensics.

Students learned about the various routes into the police service, including apprenticeships, degree pathways, and volunteering opportunities that can help build valuable skills and experience. The team also discussed the qualities and values that are essential for those considering a future in policing, such as integrity, teamwork, communication, and resilience.

A particular highlight of the session was hearing from the CSI officers, who gave a fascinating insight into the science behind crime scene investigation. They explained how evidence is collected, preserved, and analysed, and how their work plays a vital role in solving crimes and supporting justice. Students were captivated by real-life examples of how forensics supports criminal investigations, linking science directly to real-world applications.

For many Year 11 students, this talk was especially relevant to their future study interests in subjects such as psychology, sociology, criminology, and public services. It allowed them to see how these academic fields connect with real policing and investigative work.

The session also highlighted the importance of diversity and inclusion within the police force. Lee and Gordon from the Positive Action Team encouraged all students to consider a career in the police, regardless of background, and shared how GMP supports individuals to achieve their potential and serve their communities.

We would like to extend a huge thank you to Lee, Gordon, Emma, and Natalie for giving up their time to speak with our students and for delivering such an inspiring and thought-provoking session. It was a fantastic opportunity for our Year 11s to broaden their horizons and consider the many pathways available within the police service.