On Wednesday 25 September, Public Services students gained a unique insight into the workings of Border Force, one of the UK’s most crucial security agencies.
A team of officers visited the College to engage students in interactive sessions, showcasing the wide range of career paths and responsibilities within the service.
The session featured several hands-on stations, each dedicated to a different key area of Border Force’s work, including customs, immigration, concealment, sexual exploitation, and training. Students learnt about each department and the vital role they play in national security, and where to find out more about apprenticeships within the organisation.
Sarah, Border Force Senior Leader, said: “I hope today has given the students a greater understanding of the work we are doing and hopefully an enthusiasm for joining us in the future. It’s important that students understand each of the areas we work in and how the work can vary so much between departments.
I think today has been a real success. We’ve had some great interest from students, and my colleagues and I have enjoyed sharing our knowledge.”
At the counterfeit goods station students learnt how officers detect illegal goods, whilst the immigration station let students use magnifiers and UV light to identify fake passports.
Customs Officers at the Concealment station, perhaps that most popular of the day, showed off everyday items like cable drums, spirit levels and coke cans that had been altered to conceal illegal goods. Officers even gave students a tour of their van, explaining all of the potential places smugglers could hide items.
Tyler, who is studying Level 3 Public Services, said: “I’ve really enjoyed today, it’s been great to learn more about Border Force and all of the different types of work they do. I’ve particularly enjoyed seeing all of the different concealments, especially within the van. I didn’t realise how smart some of the smuggling techniques could be, so it’s really made me think about how I might like a career where I could help tackle this issue.
I didn’t realise there were so many different areas you could work in, and just how different each of them are. Border Force, and particularly the Concealments sector, is definitely a new career path for me to consider.”
Whilst Customers Officer, John added: “I think it’s important to give students an insight into what we do for a living. Events like these give them an introduction and shows them just how big it is. So many students don’t realise the number of different departments and the sheer scope of the company.
I enjoy talking directly with the students and getting them involved with the concealments – it really helps to keep them engaged.”
The visit made a strong impression on students, many of whom were unaware of the range of departments within Border Force.
The session provided an invaluable experience for the students, who walked away with a deeper understanding of the complexities and importance of the work carried out by Border Force. For many, it was the first step toward pursuing a career in public services.