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.”