The beat goes on for Hackney PCSO

Daton Beckford, one of Buckinghamshire New University's first student Police Community Support Officers, graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Police Studies with Criminal Investigation from Bucks New University on 11 September.

Daton, 23, from Hackney, East London, was one of the first cohort of Bucks New University students to take part in a revolutionary work-based learning scheme involving the training of police studies degree students to work as part-time Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) with Thames Valley Police, as part of their undergraduate studies.

"Back in school, I didn't think university was a possibility," says Daton, who has dyslexia. Ever since his careers advisor convinced him otherwise, that has all changed. "Now my ambition is to become a police dog handler."

Once he'd set his heart on a police studies degree, he chose Bucks New University for its highly regarded policing, criminology and forensics teaching. And, once he was accepted onto the BSc (Hons) Police Studies with Criminal Investigation, things got even better.

Daton says: "Bucks and Thames Valley police formed a new partnership, which gave me the chance to become a part-time PCSO. I was trained in areas like neighbourhood policing, race equality and health and safety. I worked 16 hours a week and it was great feeling to be recognised in the area I patrolled and to know that I made a difference."

After two years as a PCSO, both his degree and training have been of great use. He has faced numerous situations that required his skills as he walked the beat in Hazlemere, High Wycombe.

"Late on a Saturday, I was called to an incident. When I arrived I had three parties to deal with - the offender, the victim and several members of the public. Everyone was arguing and shouting and I needed all my communication skills to stop further offences being committed while I called for back-up. I kept the offender detained, and safe from angry residents, and I believe my contribution was a key factor in resolving the dispute to everybody's satisfaction."

Daton is now waiting for the Thames Valley Police recruitment process to open, so that he can apply to become a police officer.
"My ambition is to become a police dog handler and to return to Hackney so I can police there. Thanks to this degree I know I have a good chance of achieving that goal. It was the best choice I ever made."

Daton received his degree certificate in the presence of family and friends. Around 1,500 Buckinghamshire New University students graduated at ceremonies held at the Wycombe Swan theatre from 7-11 September 2009.