From Cadets to the Front Line: Charlotte’s PCDA Journey

A career in policing can offer real variety, purpose and the chance to make a genuine difference to people’s lives. For many new recruits, the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) has become a popular route into the service, combining frontline policing with the opportunity to gain a fully funded degree.

We recently spoke to Charlotte, an Assessment and Investigation Unit (AIU) Officer in the Mental Health Team, about her journey into policing through the PCDA and how it has shaped her career so far.

What inspired you to choose the PCDA route?

“For me, the PCDA felt like the right fit straight away,” Charlotte explains. “I wanted to get a degree, but I also wanted to be hands‑on and doing the job, not sitting in a lecture hall full time.”

Charlotte’s interest in policing started early. Between the ages of 13 and 18, she was part of the force’s Cadets, later becoming a Cadet leader. “That experience really stuck with me,” she says. “It gave me an insight into policing and confirmed that it was something I wanted to be part of.”

Before joining, Charlotte also worked in retail, which she says helped prepare her for policing. “Dealing with the public every day, handling difficult situations and learning how to communicate with people from all walks of life definitely gave me a good foundation.”

What did you enjoy most about the PCDA, and what did you find most challenging?

One of the biggest positives for Charlotte was the direct route into response policing. “You’re learning and applying it straight away, which really helps everything click,” she says. “The tutors were also hugely supportive and genuinely wanted us to succeed.”

That said, she’s honest about the challenges. “Balancing assignments alongside classroom learning and operational duties wasn’t easy. It definitely tests your time management and resilience.”

Despite this, Charlotte feels the PCDA opened doors. “It gave me exposure to different areas of policing, including Neighbourhoods, ICR and now AIU. It helped me understand where my interests and strengths really are.”

What advice would you give to anyone considering the PCDA?

Charlotte’s advice is simple but honest. “Be yourself,” she says. “And give 110 per cent to everything you do. You’ll surprise yourself with how much you’re capable of.”

She adds: “It’s challenging, but it’s worth it. If you’re committed and willing to put the work in, the PCDA can set you up for a really rewarding career in policing.”

Ready to begin your policing journey?

If Charlotte’s story has inspired you, and you’re looking for a career where you can learn, earn and make a real difference, the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship could be the perfect route into policing.

Find out more about the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship today.