The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) has announced that its Academic Director Bronwen Williams, has been awarded a Doctorate in Professional Practice in recognition of her work to develop an Employability Framework to prepare students for policing careers.
Dr Williams’ doctoral thesis explored how the University’s Police Student Volunteer scheme in collaboration with South Wales Police, contributes to developing employability skills, preparing students for careers in the police service.
Her research involved interviewing former students of the Public Services degree programme who had participated in the Police Student Volunteer scheme and worked at Swansea Help Point – an alcohol treatment centre aimed at assisting intoxicated, vulnerable, and injured individuals on nights out in Swansea. These graduates have since embarked on successful careers in law enforcement.
Dr Williams said:
“I gained valuable insights from their reflections on the skills essential for their current roles in the police service. The practical nature of the course, assessments, and, most significantly, the experience gained through volunteering at the Swansea Help Point, were pivotal to their professional growth.
“The success of such initiatives depends on strong collaborations between the University and industry partners, like the exceptional relationship between UWTSD and South Wales Police.”
Making a Difference: The Swansea Help Point
Dr Williams has also made a significant impact beyond the classroom. In 2013, she joined a collaborative working group to develop Swansea Help Point, following calls across the city for a safer night-time economy to protect both individuals and the wider community.
Launched in September 2014 during Freshers’ Week, the Swansea Help Point has become a gold-standard example of an alcohol treatment centre, helping approximately 1,000 people annually and significantly reducing the strain on A&E departments.
Dr Williams worked alongside key partners, including Daniel Jones from the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office and the late Gerallt Davies, West Glamorgan Commissioner for St John Ambulance Cymru.
In recognition of her efforts, Dr Williams was awarded the Medal of the Order of St John Sister, reflecting her dedication to improving public safety and student engagement.
A career of commitment to education and community
This marks the third academic qualification awarded to Dr Williams by UWTSD (formerly Swansea Metropolitan) since 2007. She completed her PGCE (PCET) from 2007 to 2009, followed by a master’s degree from 2009 to 2012. She is also a magistrate for the West Glamorgan Bench and a member of the Magistrates’ Association. Dr Williams said:
“My achievements are the result of hard work, supportive colleagues, and my family. It has been a privilege to combine my academic work with impactful community projects like the Swansea Help Point. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together.”
Throughout her academic and professional journey, Dr Williams has balanced her studies with raising twin daughters, crediting the unwavering support of her husband for enabling her success.
Legal Apprenticeships in Wales
Newly qualified solicitors, firm partners or owners and paralegals are being urged to take part in a survey to seek their opinions on bringing ‘solicitor’ apprenticeships to Wales, to match the Level 7 qualification on offer in England.
The survey, launched by The Law Society Wales office in collaboration with UWTSD, will make up the first comprehensive research piece which looks into the views of both students and the legal sector on educational pathways.
Dr Williams said:
“This survey data will provide a comprehensive idea on the views from students starting to think about their career, right up to the firm owners who are eager to invest in new talent.”
Open until 29th January 2025, the survey seeks to capture the opinions of school and college students, university law students, paralegals, newly qualified solicitors and firm owners.
Click here for more information on the survey.
