This study programme is specifically designed to support students who will need to complete GCSE resits in both English and Maths. The College Diploma places emphasis on skills development at this level and so a supportive programme of maths and English is compulsory within the course and will make up the bulk hours of study during the year.
Students on this course will look at the fundamentals of policing, criminology and law. This will include topics ranging from the effects of crime to crime reduction strategies and sentencing. It will also look into security procedures, prisons and probation services.
You will build a portfolio based around evidence generated by the various assessment methods in each unit. You are expected to work on multiple assessments at any one time. You will be assessed through practical demonstrations, logbooks and performance records, written reports and essays, presentations, workbooks, discussions and vivas.
Maths and English will be assessed through course work, controlled assessment and final exam.
Your attendance will be monitored, with expectations that it is maintained above 95% at all times.
A mum-of-four and former single parent says the learning style and support of Derby College enabled her to gain a degree.
Lisa Pipes, 37, combined bringing up her young family with a two-year Foundation Degree in Criminal Justice and Offender Management. In her third year at the Roundhouse she combined that with a BA in Security and Offender Management to graduate with a 2.1.
Lisa had previously started a university geography degree but when she became pregnant with twins she found it too difficult to continue her studies.
Unlike university, she said College fitted in perfectly with school term times and she found that the level of support she received was “much greater.”
She previously worked in sales and banking, but her dream had always been to be a police officer. She is now applying to join the Derbyshire force.
Lisa, who remarried while she was at College, completed her work placement with the Derby charity Women’s Work, which supports disadvantaged and vulnerable women.
The lecturers are very passionate about what they do, and it really shows. Nothing is too much trouble. I’d always wanted to get a degree – a cap and gown and all that! – but I think as you get older you put obstacles in the way.
But if I can do it with four kids, I guess it shows it’s possible for most people. I made sure I made time for the kids and worked on my studies around them. I was a single mum and I also got remarried – so all sorts was going on.
I’d recommend Derby College, particularly if you are trying to juggle bringing up a young family.