As part of our Careers In The Community initiative, PC Todd joined us today to give us an insight into the world of policing as a career option.
He began by explaining the skills and attributes a police officer needs to be able to serve their community:
- Good communication skills
- An interest in people
- Problem solving
- Empathy
- Assertiveness
- Resilience
- A good listener
PC Todd told us that it’s never too early to start thinking about what we want to do when we leave school. He was the youngest police officer to begin his career in Scotland at 17 1/2 years old.
He explained that there are many different roles within the police force from dog handlers to helicopter pilots. The children asked many questions on what life is like as a police officer.
PC Todd showed the equipment a police officer has such as a radio, handcuffs, leg restraints and a tazer. He explained that officers have to be specially trained to use all of this equipment, which is only used if absolutely necessary.
The officer then gave the children a road safety and awareness talk, discussing how to keep ourselves safe by being seen and crossing in sensible places. He also explained how we should take care when out and about on our bikes and scooters. He shared the information that electric scooters are illegal on public roads.
The children thoroughly enjoyed PC Todd’s visit and we thank the officer for taking the time to share his insights with us.
UNCRC Rights of the Child – Article 17: Right to Information
