Police in schools

Share your experiences

Closeup of neon yellow uniform vest with POLICE on it

About the research

This research project explores the presence and impact of police in schools across England. It aims to understand how students, parents, carers, teachers, and others experience and interpret the role of police in educational settings. The project examines a wide range of perspectives, with particular attention to how policing affects school environments, relationships, safety, and student wellbeing.

The research contributes to wider public and academic debates around school safety, inequality, and institutional trust. It draws on lived experience, policy analysis, and qualitative research to build a deeper picture of how police in schools are understood and felt by different communities.

Who is leading the research?

The project is led by Dr Remi Joseph-Salisbury, of the Centre on Dynamics of Ethnicity. Remi Joseph-Salisbury is Reader in Sociology at the University of Manchester. He has researched widely in the fields of education and policing, with a long-standing interest in racisms and inequalities.

The research is funded by The Leverhulme Trust and will inform a range of outputs, including a book, articles, and public-facing materials.

How to take part

The project includes an open call for testimony. If you’ve had experience of police in schools—whether as a young person, parent, carer, teacher, school staff member, or in another way—you’re invited to share your story.

People are welcome to share thoughts in any format: written messages, voice notes, video, artwork, or poetry. These might include personal experiences, things you’ve witnessed, or general reflections.

Ways to submit:

Some contributors may be invited for a follow-up conversation or interview. This is entirely optional.

Anonymity and ethics

This research has received full ethical approval from the University of Manchester.

What else does the research involve?

Alongside the open call for testimony, the project includes:

  • Interviews and research conversations
  • Focus groups and workshops with young people
  • Freedom of Information requests and policy/document analysis

Want to Know More?

For questions, press enquiries, or further information, please contact: schoolpoliceresearch@manchester.ac.uk

 

Photo cropped from original by Ethan Wilkinson on unsplash.