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Keeping Communities Safe: UPS Students Explore Modern Policing

From riot training equipment to road safety awareness, Bradford College’s Level 2 and Level 3 Uniformed Public Services (UPS) students gained a first-hand experience into the diverse world of modern day policing during a special visit from West Yorkshire Police Services.

The interactive event at Trinity Green saw six serving police officers deliver sessions covering a range of specialist areas, giving students the opportunity to hear real-life experiences, ask questions and gain valuable insight into careers within WYPS.

Understanding the Role of Specialist Teams

Split across three workshops, students explored topics including safeguarding, organised crime, counter terrorism and public order policing. Officers shared how different teams work together to protect communities, support vulnerable people and respond to a wide variety of incidents.

Gary Maindonald, Curriculum Team Leader, said:

“The world of Uniformed Public Services is incredibly varied, and it is important that our students gain an authentic understanding of the careers available to them. Opportunities such as today’s visit from West Yorkshire Police allow learners to hear directly from serving professionals, explore equipment and procedures, and understand the realities of policing in today’s society.”

Hands-On Learning Opportunities

One of the highlights of the day was the chance to get hands-on with specialist equipment such as body cameras and protective riot gear, learning how it is used in different policing environments. Students explored public order equipment, learned about the role of police dogs in supporting operations and gained an insight into specialist response procedures designed to help keep communities safe.

Real-World Insight from Serving Officers

For many learners, hearing directly from serving officers helped bring classroom learning to life.

The event also gave students a valuable opportunity to explore future career pathways and gain a clearer understanding of the skills, resilience and professionalism required in public service roles.

Building Career Awareness

Reflecting on the impact of the visit, Gary added:

“By bringing industry professionals into the classroom, we help bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring our students are informed, inspired and prepared for their future careers.”

Through experiences like these, UPS students continue to connect their studies with real-world practice, building the knowledge, confidence and career awareness needed to take their next steps into higher education, training or employment.

Interested in a career in the emergency services, armed forces or wider public services sector? Find out more about Bradford College’s Uniformed Public Services courses and take the first step towards an exciting future career.

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