Hat's the way to get ahead in police force

School liaison officers Steve Shanks, John Robertson and Gerry Christie gave 27 young people from eight East Dunbartonshire schools interested in a police career, a special insight to the force.

The three officers created a bespoke three-day work experience package, with pupils visiting various departments which support front-line 
police officers.

Area Commander Craig Smith welcomed the young people to Kirkintilloch Police Office, which was followed by a visit to the Marine Unit at Greenock.

Police Constable Steve Shanks, who has responsibility for Lenzie Academy, Kirkintilloch High School and St Ninian’s High School, said: “It’s the best way to get a real sense of your chosen industry.

“With work experience you get to speak to employees and ask them questions. You won’t know what it’s like until you get closer to the action.

“This project was really driven by the kids in school.

“Keen to join, and make the police their chosen career, John, Gerry and I 
created this bespoke package which has proved to have been a real success.”

Chief Inspector Craig Smith, Local Area Commander, said: “I was delighted to welcome the 27 pupils that represented all of the secondary schools within East Dunbartonshire to 
join us for their work experience.

“Our campus officers delivered a fantastic programme that gave the pupils a real insight into the role of a Police Officer and the opportunity to see some of the specialist departments that provide our front line officers with support as they strive to keep our local communities safe.

“I genuinely hope that I get the opportunity to welcome some of the pupils back in the near future where the next time I meet them they will have swapped their school uniform for that of a police one.”

Councillor Maureen Henry, convener of East Dunbartonshire’s Education Committee, said: “This provided an excellent work placement for the young 
people and we would thank Police Scotland for organising this experience.

“This was a great example of partnership working as part of Developing the Young Workforce, which aims to ensure all young people develop employability skills and leave school to a positive destination.”