PC Charlotte Etor-Hall, 19, joined the Met Police in August 2022, through the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship Programme (PCDA). Here she explains why becoming a police officer was always her dream and how she’s finding the mix of classroom and practical learning.
What led to you joining the Met?
Becoming a police officer was always my ambition, after I got a taste for it as a volunteer police cadet. As a cadet, I had the opportunity to learn about the Met, help my local community, build my confidence and meet like-minded young people – all while learning about policing.
I think it’s quite hard for younger people to realise what the police do, but I knew it wasn’t just arresting people. I met extraordinary people who told me different stories about different parts of the Met and it seemed like such a great opportunity - there’s so much variety.
Prior to joining the PCDA programme, I worked in a bar and completed my A-Levels. I applied for the Met whilst doing my A-Levels so I could join as soon as I finished studying.
Why did the apprenticeship route appeal to you?
One of the reasons the apprenticeship appealed to me was so I could get a degree for free - I think that swung it! I’m used to studying and doing exams. With this I would be able to get my degree and start working when I’m young, so I can specialise fairly early.
What has your apprenticeship involved so far?
The apprenticeship gives you a mix of on the job and classroom based learning over the course of three years and at the end of it, you get a BSc (hons) degree in Professional Policing Practice. You earn as you learn and are a police officer from day one.
I’ve just completed 17 weeks at university and I’m a few weeks into working out on the streets and learning the ropes in real-life scenarios – I’m not on my own though and I have experienced officers supporting me.
How are you finding the mix between classroom based and practical learning?
I enjoy the practical element more than the study, so I can apply what I’ve learned. For example at uni we learn what theft is but when you go out, you deal with someone who’s been a victim of theft, or a suspect.
When you first go out you don't know what to expect. I was fairly nervous. I think you don't really know what to expect all the time; every day can be different from the last. But exciting at the same time.
You really are helping people. It shows you what the police do as a whole, not just blue lights and all the fancy stuff you see on TV, but how they work within local communities.
How are you being supported on your apprenticeship?
My university lecturer was a police officer and I’m being supported by experienced officers when I’m out and about on the frontline. They are there supporting us and are there to help. If we freeze, our instructors can help – they don’t just chuck us in at the deep end! It’s all very positive criticism. We’re working together.
What would you say to someone considering applying for the apprenticeship programme?
I’d recommend the PCDA programme to those who want to get a degree while working on the frontline and earning a salary. When you go out on calls, you’re helping people – and you’re learning at the same time.
I love the opportunities, the variety and helping my community.
As Charlotte says, the PCDA programme means you earn as you learn and get a degree for free – all while being a police officer and helping to keep London safe.
