This year, the Metropolitan Police placement was completed by the third cohort of second-year Criminology BA Honours, Psychology BSc Honours and Sociology BA Honours students at the University of Westminster. The scheme was pioneered by Lecturer of Sociology Dr Umit Cetin and the Metropolitan Police Learning and Development Team in 2022, to give students an insight into a future career in policing.
The placement offered training alongside police recruits, lessons in basic forensic skills and trauma-informed policing, and role-playing first responses to emergency situations. Students were also invited to a day conference at New Scotland Yard to learn about the latest developments in policing the city.
Forty students put their criminological, psychological and sociological theories into practice to better understand the police perspective on social issues. The scheme is part of a core Work-Based Learning module and is an opportunity to improve students’ professional skills to help them become career-ready.
Reflecting on her experience one student, Munisa Cali, said: “This unparalleled experience has been incredibly beneficial. I especially enjoyed the forensics and hydra activities, and the career support provided further insights into potential roles at the Metropolitan Police.”
Student Alisha Khan added: “I really enjoyed my work placement at the Metropolitan Police and found it a genuinely eye-opening experience. I had no idea there were so many career paths linked to the Metropolitan Police, so it was great to see how varied the roles are. I learnt a lot from the placement and felt really engaged throughout. It also helped me think more seriously about careers in forensic psychology or working alongside emergency services."
The placement concluded on 15 July with the Metropolitan Police presenting certificates to the students in an award ceremony. Welcoming the police and students to the ceremony, Professor Dibyesh Anand, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Global Engagement and Employability at the University, said: “We are committed to supporting our students from diverse backgrounds to be responsible local, national and global citizens and to flourish in life. For us to fulfil our commitment, we need partnership with external organisations. We are especially proud of the partnership with the Metropolitan Police, where our Sociology, Criminology and Psychology students have this placement opportunity.”
About the placement, Hanna Gnanaseharam, Senior Officer in the Work Experience and Placement Team, said: “The placement is truly transformational for our students. It not only allows them to apply theory to practice but also helps break down barriers, expand their professional networks and build vital social capital. We aim to develop graduates who are critical and creative thinkers - individuals who are socially, environmentally and ethically aware. A placement with the Metropolitan Police actively facilitates this, offering an inclusive environment where students can grow both personally and professionally.”
Blessing Oluwole, who led the placement for the Metropolitan Police, said: “It has truly been a privilege to coordinate this year’s placement scheme and I am glad that many of the students are now seeking career opportunities with the police. I am very impressed with our students and especially their enthusiastic participation.”
The placement scheme directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4: Quality Education, 10: Reduced Inequalities and 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
Learn more about Criminology and Sociology courses at the University of Westminster.
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