Luke is 15 years old and in year 10 at school. He recently did a week’s work experience at a police station in Gloucester and spoke to SMA UK about how it went.

“I had a great week in the police control room where they take 999 and 101 calls as well as dispatching the police officers to deal with incidents. I was able to listen to some of the calls and to see how the police responded to them.

I enjoyed finding out more about the work that the police do – some of it was not what I expected. They worked closely with other services like the fire brigade and helped lots of people. They also did things like checking car registrations.

I learnt that some people phone 999 when they shouldn’t – when they don’t really have an emergency.

My TA from school came with me for the week but he sat in the break room until I needed him so I was completely independent in the control room.

I really enjoyed my week. I found it fun and interesting and it is something I might consider doing in the future although my dream job is an American Football coach.”

Luke starts his GCSEs next year and SMA UK wish him all the very best with his exams and his future career.