Matt Blanchard
Former Mercia Academy student Matt has turned the confidence he built at school into a career in policing, now serving his community as a Police Officer with Derbyshire Constabulary.Matt Blanchard’s journey into the emergency services began with a strong foundation at Mercia Academy. His favourite subjects were Geography and Biology, thanks to passionate teachers who encouraged open discussion and idea-sharing in class. That interactive approach helped Matt build confidence early on—something he now sees as essential in his role as a Police Officer.
Matt attended Mercia Academy from 2013 to 2018—five years that shaped his confidence and set him on the path to policing. He started secondary school unsure of his future but left with a clear goal and the determination to achieve it. Matt is keen to give back to the school that helped him find his direction and inspire other students to pursue their ambitions.
As a student entitled to free school meals, Matt was grateful for the opportunities Mercia provided, particularly through the Geography and History departments. He fondly remembers school trips abroad, including his first-ever flight—an experience made possible by the school’s support.
After leaving Mercia, Matt continued his education at The Pingle Academy Sixth Form, achieving A* grades in Geography and Psychology and an A in Biology. He went on to earn a 2:1 bachelor’s degree in Psychology with Criminology from Loughborough University.
Matt’s career journey has taken him through a variety of roles in the security sector. Ten months ago, he achieved his long-held ambition of becoming a Police Officer with Derbyshire Constabulary, serving the very communities he grew up in. His role involves responding to emergency and safeguarding incidents on a rotating shift pattern—a responsibility he approaches with dedication and professionalism.
Looking ahead, Matt hopes to rise through the ranks within Derbyshire Constabulary, but for now, he’s focused on consolidating his learning and excelling in his current role. Becoming a Police Officer is his proudest professional achievement, and personally, he’s proud to have built a fulfilling career despite the challenges often faced by young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Matt’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and a deep commitment to community service—proof that with the right support and determination, young people can overcome adversity and achieve meaningful careers. It all began at Mercia Academy, where the encouragement and opportunities he received gave him the confidence to achieve his goals.
Are you a Mercia Academy alumnus? Why not share your story and inspire others?