The New Year has kicked off with new careers for 23 Police Security Officers (PSO) graduating from Course 3 today at the South Australia Police (SAPOL) Academy.
Following a 13-week course, 21 men and two women are pleased to begin a crucial role in community safety by contributing to South Australia’s protective security.
Ranging in age from 18 to 39 years, Course 3 graduates bring skills from various employment backgrounds, including retail, graphic design, hospitality, and from the fitness industry.
Some members also bring experience as a swimming instructor, trades assistant, chef, fire technician, security officer, gardener and cleaner. Others have international backgrounds including Italian, Sikh, Irish, Greek and Nepalese.
PSO graduate Rachel previously worked as a manager in hospitality and enjoys keeping fit – having played netball since she was six years old.
Building upon leadership and resilience skills, she enjoyed the tight-knit nature of Course 3.
“We pushed each other through every physical challenge faced in Operational Safety Training and supported each other through challenges in the classroom,” Rachel said.
“Our course continuously grew closer throughout our time at the academy, showing courage and collaboration.”
Rachel hopes to transfer skills and knowledge gained through being a PSO to a police officer career later down the track.
“The career growth, pathways for promotion and ability to make a difference within the community as a police officer has always been appealing to me,” she added.
Fellow PSO graduate Riley is similarly working towards a police officer career and now has a “better understanding of people” and how to help them.
“The chance to help the community and be involved in change really brought my attention to this career and the pathways it allows for further growth,” he said.
“I hope to re-apply for police to further my skillset and eventually in my career get to work in a Detective role, or even working within the Dog Operations Unit, if I get lucky enough.”
Riley encouraged anyone interested in a career in SAPOL to “just do it”.
“It gives you a platform to develop your weaknesses and define your strengths,” he said.
“The academy life is something that doesn’t take long to get used to and is a lot of fun.
“The opportunities you get in regards to learning and experience just within the academy are fantastic.”
SAPOL is currently recruiting for Police Security Officers and is keen to hear from people who are committed to contributing to the safety and security of the state.
If you’re looking for job security, career progression pathways and a chance to make a real difference in local communities visit achievemore.com.au
New Police Security Officers Rachel and Riley are pleased to graduate today and kick off a rewarding career with South Australia Police.
