As Hertfordshire pursues a prevention first approach to policing crime, the force has welcomed another 16 new officers to the constabulary.

The new officers were formally welcomed to Hertfordshire Constabulary by Deputy Chief Constable Bill Jephson at their passing out parade in Welwyn Garden City on Thursday, February 15.

The cohort consisted of 10 ex-students, a former immigration detention custody officer, a warehouse operative, a transport logistics worker, a sports centre manager, a store manager and a teaching assistant.

While many young people may be put off by the cost of starting higher education, the constabulary offers a route where people can earn and learn on the job.

That’s exactly what these new officers are about to embark on as they start their policing careers via the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA) route.

This is a three-year, work-based practical course which enables apprentices to join as a police officer and achieve a BSc (Hons) degree in Professional Policing Practice, while at the same time earning a competitive salary starting at £31,551 and other benefits.

PC Libby Bridgen said: “I wanted to join the police because I’ve always loved helping people and aspired to make a positive difference in my local community.

"I’ll never forget when someone once asked me why I was looking to join a job that was all ‘doom and gloom’, because their perception was that each day, you’re just delivering bad news.

"However, that’s not the case at all and I feel honoured to be in a job that enables me to make a difference every day, helping those in need and everything that comes with it.

I’m so excited to start my placement. I’m looking forward to supporting my first victim and to come away knowing that I’ve helped someone.

"I’m also looking forward to the community side of things such as going into schools, engaging and educating the students and giving them a positive experience with the police.”

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Family and friends of the new officers came along to celebrate their achievement at police headquarters in Stanborough, Welwyn Garden City, where the new recruits were presented with certificates by Mr Jephson, marking the end of their initial training.

“I’m delighted to welcome you all to the constabulary and our police family,” said Deputy Chief Constable Jephson.

Congratulations on completing your training. You’ll have experienced a wide range of scenarios but now you enter the real world of policing and will be putting everything you’ve learnt into practice, whilst also developing your learning further along the way.”

DCC Jephson added: “You will be the person victims meet in their time of need and will encounter some difficult situations, but I know you will all make a positive impact and continue to build on the strong relationships with our communities.

"I wish you all the very best in your careers.”