The Office for the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) in Derbyshire has been supporting young people to develop their career through apprenticeships for several years, with great success. Many of the apprentices have become valued members of staff working across the OPCC or in Derbyshire Constabulary.
During National Apprenticeship Week, the OPCC were keen to share the success of their apprenticeship programme, developed with Learning Unlimited, to highlight the benefits of developing a workforce through an apprenticeship.
Police and Crime Commissioner, Hardyal Dhindsa said:
“Apprenticeships give young people the opportunity to gain experience and learn while earning money on the job. We have been very impressed at the calibre of all our apprentices who, during their time with us, have learned key skills that will boost their career prospects in the future, while making a valuable contribution to the Office. It’s a win, win situation.”
This is a view that is shared by Level 3 Business Administration apprentice, Josh Mycroft. He told us how his apprenticeship works.
“I’ve only been here for 6 months but I have already experienced so much. I’ve worked in different departments of the organisation including the grants team, the engagement team and in business administration. I’ve also had a day out with a police officer which was a great experience.
I really enjoy going out in the community to do engagement events. I didn’t expect to be doing that kind of work but it is great to go out and meet the public across Derbyshire.
I have a work-based tutor who visits me once or twice a month and I spend about 7 hours a week studying for my qualification.
I am gaining loads of skills which I know will help down the line. It is not all about the college work; it is about what you learn in the office as well. You learn how to act and behave in a work place and you are getting skills from people you work with every day.
An apprenticeship gives you a real stepping stone to excel your career. Once you are in an organisation like the OPCC you learn so much.”