Local pupils gain insight into policing through PSNI work experience programme

Pupils taking part in personal safety exercise.

Thirty sixth-year students from schools across Mid and East Antrim have taken part in a dynamic three-day work experience programme with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), offering a behind-the-scenes look at frontline policing and community service.

From 16th to 18th June, students from Ballymena, Carrickfergus and Larne engaged with officers and specialists from a wide range of PSNI departments during an immersive placement organised by the District’s Community Planning and Neighbourhood Policing Teams.

The initiative was designed to provide students with a unique perspective on the realities of modern policing and the diverse roles within the PSNI, including cybercrime, criminal investigations, air support, dog handling, first aid, and personal safety training.

Senior officers, including Superintendent Gerry McGrath, Chief Inspector Rory Bradley, and Chief Inspector Chris Tate, played an active role in supporting the initiative, sharing personal stories and professional experiences with the students.

Chief Inspector Chris Tate commented:

“Local officers were delighted to welcome students for three days of work experience, and by spending time with teams from across the service, students got to explore the various aspects of law enforcement, including crime prevention, investigations, community outreach and the challenges officers face on a daily basis.

“For our local pupils considering a future in criminal justice, law or public safety, such experience can be instrumental in shaping career aspirations. It also helps develop transferable skills like communication, teamwork, problem solving and resilience, all of which are vital in any profession, but very important in the world of policing.

“Importantly, engagement with police encourages positive relationships between young people and the police, promoting mutual trust and understanding within communities – we are humans at the end of the day, we just so happen to be in uniform most of the time.

“In areas where tensions may exist, this connection is particularly significant, helping to break down barriers and support long-term peace-building efforts. Ultimately, work experience with the PSNI not only benefits individual pupils but also contributes to a more informed, responsible and engaged generation. It’s an investment in both personal development and the broader goal of building safer, more cohesive communities in Northern Ireland.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those pupils who took part in our work experience and enriching our working day. I look forward to working with them in future.”

The students themselves were enthusiastic about the opportunity, with feedback reflecting a shift in perception and increased interest in policing careers.

Comments included:

“Talking with the officers positively changed my view of the police.”

“I found that being a police officer is much more than what people think it is, a lot happens behind the scenes than I ever thought it did.”

“This work experience has strengthened my desire to join the police.”

The PSNI’s work experience programme is part of ongoing efforts to engage young people and build strong, trust-based relationships between communities and law enforcement across Mid and East Antrim.

Anyone interested in upcoming work experience opportunities when the new school term begins in September is encouraged to contact the Mid and East Antrim policing team via the non-emergency number 101.