PC Courtney Thompson completed her Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) last year, graduating with a BSc (Hons) in Professional Policing Practice. She talks about her transformative journey through the PCDA programme and now works as a response police officer with the London Metropolitan Police, making a real impact every day.
Can you describe your time at Brunel as a Police Constable Degree Apprentice?
It was the most rewarding time. I put in the work and saw the result. It has benefited me both professionally and personally.
What was the support like at Brunel?
Anything that affected us at Brunel was taken seriously by the university. We received a lot of support, especially for any learning adjustments we needed. Friends in my class were able to get diagnoses for ADHD and dyslexia, and they were guided to find pathways to achieve their goals.
What was your experience of the academic side of things at Brunel?
In years 2 and 3, we were given a subject area and had more room for discovery. The final dissertation was my favourite because it allowed for so much independent work. This experience helped me both academically and professionally, where I might not have been able to explore the topic of male victims of domestic abuse as deeply.
What's the best bit about being a police officer?
The best part is the team element. There's a real sense of togetherness, a strong team factor, and great camaraderie. You can have a laugh and a giggle together, but when needed, everyone pulls together. You're all there for each other.
What's your top tip for any new PCDA students?
Give every assignment 100%. The more effort you put in, the more you learn, and the easier it becomes.
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