When did you leave Chesterton Community College?

I left Chesterton Community College in 1994.

What is your job?

I am a Police Officer. I hold the rank of Chief Superintendent and am Head of Specialist Operations across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Police Forces.

Did you know as a teenager which career you wanted to pursue or did you come to realise this later on?

I realised that I was interested in policing while I was doing my A Levels. I felt very strongly about protecting vulnerable people and thought policing would be a good way to achieve this.

How did you start on your career?

I went to university, but most new recruits who join today do so on a Degree Apprenticeship: a three-year programme where you learn on the job. Many new recruits come straight from A Levels.

I started as a PC “on the beat” in Cambridge City Centre. I later became a Detective and was Head of Cambridge CID for many years. I enjoyed (and still enjoy) investigating serious crimes. There are many ex-Chesterton pupils who are currently serving Police Officers.

What do you like about your job?

The best element of policing is the variety. There are so many different areas in which you can gain experience or specialise. It is quite exciting at times and can really get the adrenaline pumping!

What is the first advice you would give a student wanting to follow in this direction?

We have a diverse workforce and there are roles for people who have different skills. One essential skill you must have is a desire to make your community a better place in which to live, work or visit. Some people stay in policing for five years, while others stay for their whole working lives.