HSDC Mock Interviews Build Career-Ready Skills

Uniformed Service students at HSDC have been putting their career preparation into practice through a series of realistic mock interviews delivered in partnership with serving public service professionals.

Hosted at Alton College and South Downs Campus, the interviews were designed to mirror real recruitment and selection processes used across the uniformed services. This gave students an authentic insight into what employers look for, while helping them build the professional skills and behaviours needed for progression into employment, training or further study.

Students were interviewed by representatives from the police, armed forces, Ministry of Defence, fire and ambulance services. Through this experience, learners developed essential employability skills including communication, teamwork, resilience, decision-making and professional conduct — skills that are not only vital for uniformed services careers, but also highly transferable to a wide range of associated roles in public service, security, leadership and community-focused employment.

The sessions also supported students to understand how their course learning connects directly to labour market expectations. By practicing interviews in a high-pressure but supportive environment, learners strengthened their confidence, learned how to articulate their strengths and gained a clearer understanding of employer standards and values.

Following each interview, students took part in structured feedback and Q&A sessions with employers, enabling them to reflect on their performance and gain practical advice on how to improve. This feedback is a key part of helping learners make informed career decisions and prepare effectively for next steps.

These mock interviews form part of HSDC’s wider employer engagement programme, which aligns closely with national and local skills priorities. By working directly with employers, the College ensures its curriculum supports the development of skills identified through skills policy and Local Skills Improvement Plans, helping students progress into sectors where there is clear demand.

Vicki Wise, Uniformed Services Lecturer at South Downs Campus, said: “Our students prepared thoroughly for these interviews and demonstrated real professionalism throughout. Having direct contact with employers gives them a clear picture of the expectations of their chosen career and helps them build the confidence and skills they need to succeed.”

Students from Levels 1 to 3 took part, highlighting the inclusive nature of HSDC’s Uniformed Services provision. Across all levels, learners benefited from meaningful employer feedback and a stronger understanding of how their studies translate into real-world opportunities.

HSDC is proud of its strong partnerships with public service organisations across the region and looks forward to welcoming them back into College later this year for further industry-focused activities that continue to support learners into employment and skilled careers.