Meet PC Adam Faux

What inspired you to become a police officer?

I’ve always wanted a career where I could make a genuine difference to people’s lives and support the community around me. Before joining policing, I spent many years working in health and social care. In this role I supported vulnerable children and young adults with complex needs and challenging behaviours which taught me the importance of empathy, communication, safeguarding and remaining calm under pressure.

Alongside this, I’ve also been heavily involved in my local community through various voluntary and community-based initiatives including working with the Parish Council, flood resilience planning, and local community groups. Through these experiences I realised how much I value public service and helping people feel safe and supported. Therefore, policing felt like a natural progression where I could combine my professional experience, community focus, and desire to protect vulnerable people while continuing to develop myself both professionally and personally.

Why did you choose to start your policing career with Nottinghamshire Police?

Nottinghamshire Police stood out to me because of its strong focus on neighbourhood policing, community engagement and protecting vulnerable people, which are all areas I’m passionate about. Living in Nottinghamshire, I’ve seen first-hand the importance of visible policing and building positive relationships with communities.

I wanted to join a police force where I could serve the communities I know, while also developing in a varied and challenging career. I was also drawn to Nottinghamshire Police because of their values and standards they uphold, particularly the emphasis they put on professionalism, integrity and working together. Throughout the recruitment process and since starting training, I’ve felt supported and welcomed, which reinforced that I had made the right decision.

What made you choose the PCDA route into policing?

The PCDA route appealed to me because it combines practical frontline policing with structured learning and professional development, and I liked the idea of gaining operational experience while also developing a deeper understanding of legislation, policing theory, and evidence-based practice.

Coming from a professional background where continuous learning and development were important, the apprenticeship route suited the way I learn and provided me with an opportunity to gain a recognised qualification while building the skills and knowledge needed to become an effective police officer. I also felt as though the programme would challenge me both academically and operationally, which was something I wanted from the beginning of my policing career.

How are you finding the programme so far and what has been your favourite part?

I’m really enjoying the programme so far. While it has been challenging at times due to the large amount of legislation, policy, and practical learning to cover in a relatively short period of time, it has also been extremely rewarding. My favourite part so far would be the practical training and scenario-based learning we have covered.

Being able to apply legislation and communication skills in realistic situations has really helped build my confidence and understanding of the role. I’ve particularly been enjoying learning about the powers of arrest, search procedures and decision making using the national decision model and I have also enjoyed meeting people from a wide range of backgrounds within the cohort and being able to learn from each other’s experiences and perspectives.

How do you balance your academic studies with your training?

Balancing the academic side with operational training requires organisation and consistency. I try to stay disciplined with my time management by revising little and often rather than leaving things until the last minute. I use a range of study methods depending on the subject, including flashcards, repetition, scenario practice and reflective learning and I’ve found that linking academic learning directly to practical policing scenarios really helps me to retain information and understand why it is important operationally.

I also recognise the importance of maintaining a healthy balance outside of training by making time for family and switching off when possible, as this helps me stay focused and motivated.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone considering this career and joining through the PCDA route, what would it be?

My biggest piece of advice would be to stay resilient and trust the process. The PCDA route can feel demanding at times because you are balancing academic work, operational learning, and personal development all at once, but it is also incredibly rewarding.

I would also say not to let age put you off applying. I joined the programme at 36 and initially wondered whether being older and returning to the academic environment after such a long time out of education would be a challenge. However, I’ve found that the life experience, communication skills, and resilience I’ve developed through previous careers and community work have been a huge advantage.

Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions, learn from your mistakes, and lean on the support around you, whether that’s from the tutors, your colleagues, or your cohort. Everyone starts somewhere, and your confidence and knowledge will build over time. Most importantly, remember why you wanted to join policing in the first place. Keeping that motivation in mind helps you push through the challenging moments and continue developing into the best officer you can be so just enjoy it!