Claire
Public Services L3

I chose my course because I wanted to learn more about the different types of public services I could potentially work in. My favourite modules so far have been those exploring crime scenes and looking at how first responders react to emergency situations. After my course, I plan to begin a career in the prison service.

Amy
Criminology L3

My course is helping me develop skills for a career in criminal psychology. I enjoy working in a small, supportive and friendly class. My tutor is really pro-active and embeds careers and employability skills into everything we do. After my course, I plan to study Criminology and Psychology at university.

Katy
Public Services L3

I chose the Level 3 Public Services course because I wanted to progress onto a career in the fire service. Because the course explores a range of different services, I actually discovered I wanted to become a paramedic after learning more about the service. I chose the college because the course seemed to include more variety, not just focusing on the army like some others I had seen. Also having a three day timetable allowed me to work and gain experience alongside my qualification.

I enjoy the practical side of the course the most, for example when we were included in the police riot training exercise with Durham Constabulary! My tutors have really supported me throughout my course, they look at everyone as an individual and help in any way they can.

My next step is to progress onto Teesside University to study Paramedic Science to become a paramedic. I’m really looking forward to starting my course and can’t wait to be qualified!

Jordan
Public Services L3

Jordan started at Bishop Auckland College by studying for his Level 2 qualification in Public Services, before progressing onto and completing his Level 3 qualification. During this time he started volunteering for NERAMS (North East Rescue and Medical Services) to gain experience for his dream career as a paramedic. His hardwork paid off and he has been offered a job with the service! This is a great next step towards him securing his dream career.

Previous student trips have included visits to Prague, London and Poland. Students will visit a range of local services, including police and fire stations, army garrisons, training centres and facilities. In the past this has included riot training with Durham Constabulary and a 4 day army residential visit in York.

Students will also have visits from sector experts who will deliver training in-house. In the past this has included the army, the marines and paramedics. Guest speakers in the past have included members of the civil service, a defence solicitor, NCS representatives, the Army Rifles and the Royal Signals.

Each year students get involved in our highly successful 'Careers in the Army' events. This includes a dedicated event for students to meet representatives from different parts of the army and discover the range of careers and opportunities open to them. This is followed up by a large open air event full of interactive activities including a climbing wall for students to try, a real Air Corps helicopter and even a military crane.

With over ten different areas represented, students can talk to those with real-life experience of what being in the army is like. Some of the areas represented at last year's event included: The Royal Engineers, The Yorkshire Regiment, 37th Signal Regiment, 162 Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps, The Household Cavalry, The Guards and 162 Regiment RLC.

Students are also strongly encouraged to take part in a range of charity and fundraising events during their time in the department. From selling poppies at local supermarkets, to supporting coffee mornings, our students are at the heart of the college community. Each year students help organise a coffee morning for SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity to raise important funds and to raise the profile of our work.