Combining Passion and Purpose: Matilda's Journey

Matilda is a Police Constable with Derbyshire Constabulary, currently completing the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA). Her journey is one of resilience, passion, and purpose - combining hands-on experience with academic learning to become a confident, community-driven officer. Whether she’s out on patrol or representing the British Police rugby team, Matilda is showing just how far commitment and courage can take you.

A day in the life

For Matilda , there’s no such thing as a typical day in the job and that’s exactly why she loves it.

“Each day I learn something new and face fresh challenges,” she explains. “But I know that every day I’m doing my best to make a difference and help those in the community.”

As a serving Police Officer for Derbyshire Constabulary, Matilda is on the front line of public service while also studying towards a degree - something she says adds real depth to her role.

“I wanted to study the PCDA to understand the history of policing, to learn from past mistakes and successes, and to use that to shape the future. I’m a practical learner too, so learning on the job really suits me.”

Making a real difference

The PCDA isn’t just helping Matilda grow, it’s bringing value to her force too.

Her academic training is already influencing her professional goals. She’s particularly drawn to tackling domestic abuse among adolescents and hopes to apply her learning from the ‘Current Trends in Policing and Research’ module to develop meaningful insights and solutions.

Work, study and sports

Time management has been one of Matilda’s biggest challenges, but she’s made it work.

“It’s tough to balance shifts and study, especially when you're rotating through different departments and making new connections all the time. But with a bit of organisation and a good support system, it’s definitely doable.”

That support has come from her mentors and tutors, especially her work-based tutor.

“He was brilliant - so knowledgeable and always ready to help, even now. I still go to him when I need advice.”

Outside of work and study, Matilda’s also a committed rugby player. She started out playing locally and now plays for the British Police team, travelling across the country and the world!

“We’re going to South Africa in January 2026 to play two local teams. I’ve had amazing support from the force and my colleagues. Rugby keeps me physically and mentally strong, and it's a great way to bond with others in the police family.”

Skills for life

Over the course of her apprenticeship, Matilda has developed valuable personal and professional skills.

“I’ve definitely grown in confidence and improved my communication. The university side has helped me develop better time management and reflective skills, which are so important for being an effective officer.”

She’s already passed her second year at university and successfully graduated from training school - achievements she’s proud of and sees as stepping stones toward her dream of becoming a General-Purpose Dog Handler.

Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards

We were proud to see Matilda shortlisted for Degree Apprentice of the Year and awarded a Highly Commended at the Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2025.

Advice for future apprentices

Matilda is clear about her message to anyone considering the PCDA route at the University of Derby.