PC Sanders

Serving, Steering, Shaping - PC Sanders' Journey

PC Sanders joined Hampshire Constabulary in 2003 as a control room operator, becoming an officer in 2007 and working response policing across Southampton. In September 2016, following colleagues' lead, PC Sanders joined the MDP, moving straight onto the Marine Unit in Portsmouth. Today, she is a trainer in Learning and Development, helping shape the next generation of MDP officers.

Finding a new challenge

Having never handled a firearm before, PC Sanders worked hard to achieve the Initial Firearms Course qualification, going on to gain further qualifications including Powerboat Instructor and Yachtmaster Coastal. A desire to support colleagues struggling with fitness test anxiety led to her qualifying as a Level 3 Personal Trainer.

"Wanting to support officers who struggled with the anxiety of taking the fitness test" was a key motivator in this next chapter.

A new start with Learning and Development

When the L&D team moved down from Essex to Southwick Park, PC Sanders saw the opportunity to join a new team of experienced, motivated officers.

"Making a new start and being able to make a difference to how we train our new recruits was a motivating factor."

Life on the Recruit Training Programme

PC Sanders describes a varied and rewarding role. "No two days are the same. We're dealing with student welfare, supporting the instructing team, ensuring training is delivered to a high standard, reviewing material, writing report books, and conducting uniform inspections."

The most rewarding part? In her words, its "being able to make a difference in the instructors' and students' learning experience. Watching students pass out after learning the ropes of becoming a professional police officer."

Advice for others considering the role

"It's an excellent, supportive team, but you'd need to be prepared to listen and support each other in a busy working environment. Positive, motivated officers with a good team-working attitude is essential."

Looking back on the first day joining the Recruit Training Programme, PC Sanders reflects: "Listen more! I came into the role a bit overconfident in my abilities and had to relearn areas of law which had changed since I'd last used them. Be open to change."

Interest in joining our L&D team?

Find out more about our Learning & Development Trainers and how to apply.