WHEN is a police officer not a police officer?

When he or she is a role model, a peace-keeper, a deterrent and a law-enforcer.

As a safer schools officer, PC Helen Kingston is all of those things and more, working out of Sir Charles Lucas Arts College, in Hawthorn Avenue, Greenstead, Colchester.

The school has had its own officer since 2003, and members of the school's student council are quick to point out the benefits.

Head girl Victoria Alefounder, 16, said: "It changes the perception of police officers because PC Kingston walks around and is a genuine person. It helps the younger years to know that police aren't just there to boss you around.

"Above all, it shows the school cares about us."

Twelve-year-old Megan Crombie said that PC Kingston had once waded into a fight and physically separated two youngsters.

"It was amazing to see a woman come out and do that," she said. "The shock on people's faces was great."

Fellow year eight pupil James Newton said: "When PC Kingston wasn't here there were a lot of fights and I'm small, so I worry about getting squashed."

Head boy Jason Sweeney, 16, added: "The school is a nice place but there is always the potential for antisocial behaviour; PC Kingston's presence reduces that potential."

PC Kingston said: "I see it as reducing crime and disorder and antisocial behaviour, but that is within the school. Because the majority come from the estate, my role is also about reducing those issues on the estate and the peripheries."

Having its own officer also helps reassure parents, for instance when a man in a van was reported to be stopping pupils and asking them personal questions.

Having a police officer within the school meant that teachers were kept up-to-date with the facts, and parents were more confident.

Andy Howard, assistant principal, praised the schools officer scheme: "It is a good way to link the community with the school and gives students a level of protection.

"It also gives pupils the chance to see that things they thought were just against school rules are actually against the law.

"However, it is important to be aware that students' behaviour is still managed by the senior leadership team and staff."