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From lecture halls to patrol calls: Policing students at CU Coventry get a taste of the beat
CU Coventry policing students work with officers from West Midlands Police on a vehicle stop assignment
Student news
Wednesday 04 June 2025
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Coventry neighbourhood officers were invited to CU Coventry to support students through their ‘vehicle stop’ assignment.
Working with students from the Professional Policing degree, Foleshill officers were able to provide advice and guidance from a real-life policing perspective.
During the session, students were asked to stop a vehicle and conduct certain checks on the vehicle and driver. Officers helped set the scene by arriving in a police van, testing the sirens and blue lights, and observing how the students performed.
After the practical element of the assignment, officers took the time to answer any questions the students had about policing, the role of an officer, and about any incidents they have attended since being in the job.
Officers also shared invaluable insights about how policing has changed over the years and how the advancement of technology has helped them on the frontline. They were also able to show examples of body-worn footage and discuss the demands of being in the emergency services.
Effective communication is an essential tool in policing and in particular when using police radios where the correct protocol has to be followed.
The input of the officers provided invaluable guidance and feedback for the students, which will aid in their reflective practice essay following their vehicle stop scenario.
The students thoroughly enjoyed the session and greatly valued the guidance, being able to introduce a practical element to their learning by utilising officers really makes a difference, which is also integral in developing their knowledge and understanding of policing practice.
Paul Mercer, lecturer in Policing at CU Coventry
Thank you to CU Coventry for inviting Foleshill officers to provide advice and guidance to their students. We hope they received a good insight into life as a police officer, and the many other roles available in West Midlands Police.
Connecting with our large student community is a top priority for us. You will often see officers patrolling around university campuses and high traffic areas for students making sure they are safe from harm. Being able to connect with students in small groups allows officers to hear their concerns and reassure them that we are here to help.
After the summer, we look forward to welcoming back all students across the city in September for the new academic year and we hope to see those choosing to do a policing degree joining the force after their studies.
Inspector Gemma Marston from West Midlands Police
CU Coventry, which is part of Coventry University Group, gives students set times on campus so they can pursue their studies without compromising their other commitments. There are no end-of-year exams and students study one subject module at a time while enjoying personalised support and guidance.
Find out more about studying Policing at CU Coventry.
