Policing Degree Students Spend a “Night Behind Bars” at Shrewsbury Prison

An immersive experience in one of the UK’s most notorious former prisons gave our Lincoln College University Centre BA (Hons) Professional Policing students a unique insight into life behind bars - and what it's like to work on both sides of the cell door. 

Last week, students from the BA (Hons) Professional Policing degree took part in the “Night Behind Bars” experience at Shrewsbury Prison, a former Victorian jail turned educational and events venue. The overnight stay was part of an organised course trip designed to deepen students’ understanding of the prison environment and the wider criminal justice system. 

The experience included a fully guided tour of the prison, real-life stories from former officers and inmates, and a chance to engage in team-based tasks inside the old wings, cells and communal areas. Students also had the opportunity to take part in role-play scenarios and group challenges, adding an interactive layer to the visit. 

“This was so much more than just a tour,” said final year student Emma Mclening. “Being inside the prison overnight gave us a real sense of what confinement feels like and also highlighted the kind of resilience, communication and teamwork needed to work in that environment.” 

First year student Billy-Mak Harrison, added: "Having a deep and immersive dive into the history of the prison was incredible, with the addition of the overnight stay and escape rooms making the experience truly unique." 

The event was also a powerful team-building opportunity for the group. Spending the night in such an intense setting helped students bond, develop leadership skills and reflect on the importance of working together under pressure - key attributes for a future in policing. 

Zoe Tetley, Course Lead for the Professional Policing Degree, praised the trip as a valuable extension of classroom learning. “Experiences like this bring policing theory to life. Our students gained practical insights that will hopefully stay with them throughout their careers.”  

For those interested in policing, criminology, or the justice system, our BA (Hons) Professional Policing degree might be the right course for you. We’re still accepting applications for September 2025 entry. Learn more or apply today:  Policing and Social Sciences Courses : Lincoln College