Kien Kirk, from Coventry, has moved a step closer to achieving his dream of a career in policing as he embarks on his first year studying BSc (Hons) Professional Policing at Edge Hill University.
And as a result of his efforts so far, Kien has secured an Excellence Scholarship worth £2,000 over the course of his studies.
Starting while studying for his GCSEs, Kien spent three years volunteering as a cadet with West Midlands Police, progressing to become Youth Crime Commissioner.
In 2021, Kien was awarded a Neighbourhood Policing Unit Commander’s Award after helping officers arrest a man found to be carrying knives.
Kien spotted the man with the deadly weapons at a petrol station in Coventry and called 999, using the skills he learned as a cadet to give clear, simple details which allowed officers to quickly respond and apprehend the man.
He said: “I’ve wanted to join the police for as long as I remember and being a cadet gave me a taste of what it would be like to achieve my dream.
“The experiences I’ve had so far only reinforced my determination to pursue a career in policing because I’ve always had a sense of civic duty and it’s important to me to feel like I’m making a contribution to society.”
As well as dedicating hundreds of hours to volunteering as a cadet, Kien has also given his time to work as a Duke of Edinburgh Ambassador, as well as being appointed Head Boy of his school.
Edge Hill University offers a range of scholarships for applicants and current students to celebrate determination, commitment and achievement in a variety of areas, from rewarding academic excellence, overcoming adversity, and helping and inspiring others. Learn more about the range of scholarships the University by visiting www.edgehill.ac.uk/scholarships/.
Alongside one of the most impressive and innovative scholarship packages in the higher education sector, the University operates the Student Opportunity Fund to help students take part in career enhancing opportunities. Find out more here www.edgehill.ac.uk/scholarships/student-opportunity-fund.
Excellence Scholarships are awarded to students proud of something they have achieved and can demonstrate determination, commitment and achievement outside of their studies. To discover more about courses at Edge Hill University, please visit ehu.ac.uk/study.
November 8, 2022
