After nearly four decades in uniformed service roles, including time in the military, police and ambulance service – Richard Wiltshire now brings his real-world expertise to the classroom as a public services lecturer at City College Plymouth.
Richard said, “I served just under 28 years in uniform service roles. After retiring from the police, I joined South West Ambulance Service, but when a lecturing role came up at the College, it felt like the right moment to pass on my experience to the next generation of public service professionals.”
Richard’s transition into teaching wasn’t accidental, he’d already trained as a Tutor Constable, mentoring junior police officers at live incidents. This background has shaped his hands-on approach to teaching.
“When I explain a concept such as police telecommunications, I’m not just reading from presentation slides. I’m telling students how my personal radio was one of the most important pieces of equipment I used. That direct experience brings the subject to life.”
Richard believes that the College’s public services courses stand out because they balance theory with practical skills, while also focusing on the development of core values.
“Character, integrity and a willingness to help others are just as important as textbook knowledge. Our aim is to develop students into confident, capable individuals who are prepared for the realities of life in public service.”
Among the many modules Richard teaches, crime scene investigation remains a firm favourite – a unit that allows students to connect classroom learning with genuine day-to-day police procedure.
“It’s something every police officer deals with, and it’s a fun module to teach. That enjoyment definitely helps the students absorb more and complements the learning process immensely.”
When asked what advice he’d give to future students considering policing or a uniformed service, Richard is clear:
“Be committed. Put in maximum effort. Respect your team and stay focused – that’s the mindset public service requires, and it’s what we nurture here.”
If you’d like to know more about our public service courses, follow this link: cityplym.info/PublicServices
