Meet the Nottinghamshire Police communications apprentices for whom no two days are the same

Two apprentices are taking the Nottinghamshire Police communications team by storm after a successful apprenticeship program.

Hollie Auburn and Charlie Wolfe were given a unique opportunity to join the world of police communications — where every day is different and a new challenge is around every corner.

And they have each taken the challenge with both hands — getting stuck in with everything from filming and video editing to graphic design, news writing and campaign planning.

Hollie and Charlie have become valued members of the communications and engagement team and were recently promoted to assistant communications and engagement officers.

Their success is among of a number being highlighted this week as part of National Apprenticeship Week — and there is now an opportunity for more people to follow in their footsteps with four new apprenticeship roles in the department up for grabs.

Charlie, 25, said: “I actually applied for a different apprenticeship over a year ago now but was approached to say I’d be a fantastic applicant to be an apprentice within the communications team, which then led me to joining the marketing executive program.

“I had no idea the police service even did apprenticeships for the communications department and my skill set perfectly matched up, so I jumped at the chance to be able to work for Nottinghamshire Police.

“We never know what each day will bring, so no two days are ever the same for us in the department.

“One thing that has really stood out are the skills I have learned since joining the police, we can often be found sat at our computers working on releases for the internal website, photographing events, campaigns and filming — so every day is always interesting and the job is great because it allows me to get creative.

“Most people imagine working for the police means being an officer and being out on the streets keeping people safe, but our role is also just as important.

“Our job role means we are trusted to keep each and every officer up to date and informed on any issues, changes and events through our internal website.

“We are treated the same as everyone else in our office and we understand how important communications are not just for the media but also for our own staff as well.

“My advice to anyone thinking about applying is to go for it, I have a degree but it didn’t stop me.

“You go to university and even though you come out with a degree you don’t get this kind of opportunity to learn on the job.”

The PR and communications assistant apprenticeship and marketing executive program are just two of many being offered.

Nottinghamshire Police has been working hard with West Nottinghamshire College to offer a wide range of staff apprenticeships, including in finance, HR and in media and communications.

Hollie, 23, said: “Since the day we started working we have been trusted to look after the internal website but also help run and organise campaigns.

“Our job might include making sure we meet deadlines and expectations of journalists who work for the local and national media but internal comms is also incredibly important.

“It’s all about making sure the staff are happy, connected and engaged and we play a huge part in that.

“The work we do is so varied and each and every campaign we work on is different. One in particular that comes to mind is the wellbeing campaign because we were able to give something back to those who risk their lives daily to protect the public.

“The skills we are learning in this program are helping equip us for our future and by taking part in an apprenticeship it really is a foot in the door to bigger and better things.

“Apprenticeships give you a huge step forward because you get the opportunity to work for the police and really progress your career.”

Nottinghamshire Police apprentice officer Ron Lawrence said: “Our apprentices are an absolute asset, both officers and staff, and I’m delighted that our continued partnership work has put us in a position to offer so many fantastic opportunities across various departments.

“We have had so many success stories as a result of the schemes we offer, including people going on to full-time employment, and I hope that people enjoy what we share.”