It was a particularly happy Friday for 14 new Police Security Officers (PSOs) who today graduated from the South Australia Police Academy.
Nine men and five women bring a diverse range of backgrounds and experience to the role, including from retail, administration, disability work and as a prison officer.
Ranging in age from 19 to 45 years, today's graduates from PSO Qualification Program 6 provide an invaluable boost to SAPOL's Police Security Services Branch.
Following weeks of training in law and procedure, communications, and operational safety the new PSOs will now be posted to a variety of metropolitan locations, including high risk and critical infrastructure sites.
Hannah is looking forward to ensuring thesafety and security of government buildings, assets and people, while working closely with police officers.
"I like the idea of every day being different and the range of pathways and opportunities," she said.
"I applied for SAPOL as soon as I turned 18. Prior I was working at a supermarket as a front-end supervisor, while also balancing out university and studying early childhood education.
"I enjoy going to the gym, running and being active. I also have a passion for playing footy."
During her time at the academy, Hannah has gained confidence in her abilities.
"I found the first few weeks of written exams stressful, but overcame that and passed the exams," she said.
"Out phase was a great experience and helped me relate to my academy learning."
Fellow graduate Nikhil worked in Victorian corrections as a prison officer and played indoor cricket before making the move to South Australia and joining SAPOL.
"This experience developed my communication in conflict resolution and resilience skills which I found very helpful throughout the training and will continue to benefit me as a PSO," he said.
"The opportunity for personal growth and development, career stability and job security, a healthy work/life balance, and chance to contribute meaningful safety to the community are reasons why I applied to SAPOL.
"The application process was thorough, but smooth, and it was encouraging to see the support offered throughout the recruitment process."
The support of mentors and course mates enabled Nikhil to overcome initial challenges, particularly with firearms training.
"We built a strong team culture, checking in on each other regularly, offering support and help during assessments, exams and celebrating each other's successes," he added.
"I have become more resilient, confident and better at managing high-pressure situations calmly and professionally."
Hannah hopes to one day become a police officer and to join Dog Operations Unit, while Nikhil aims to develop his skills as a PSO and eventually explore opportunities in operational support units.
If you are looking for job security, career progression pathways and a chance to make a real difference in local communities visit Achievemore - Join Us (police.sa.gov.au)
Nikhil and Hannah are among 14 new Police Security Officers to graduate today from the South Australia Police Academy.
