Rhian's journey of academic exploration and professional achievement

After completing her studies at the University, Rhian Metcalf ascended the ranks to assume the role of Service Manager for His Majesty's Courts and Tribunals Service.

Rhian Metcalf didn’t feel like she was reaching her true potential until she came to the University to study BA (Hons) Religion, Culture and Society. She said the course “ignited her passion for these interesting subjects.”

While studying, Rhian was given the chance to work as an academic researcher along with her student ambassador role. This involved delivering lectures to further education students and facilitating a residential project. Her final year thesis on institutionalised males, was later published in the British Journal of Criminology.

"The care, encouragement, and belief I received from Dr. Carolyn King and all the team based at UCLan had a transformative effect on my life, and I truly believe that I wouldn’t be where I am today. I will be forever grateful for my experience."

— Rhian Metcalf, BA (Hons) Religion, Culture and Society alumna

After graduation, Rhian joined the National Probation Service as a receptionist. In her role, she gained invaluable training and experience in different areas. She has worked within the Victim Information Service, Crown Court, Community Offender Management, Approved Premises, and completed a short term in prison establishments.

Developing her career, Rhian went on to gain her Probation Officer qualification. She also completed an NCFE Level 3 specialised qualification in Developing Good Practice in Correctional Settings. She then became a fully qualified Probation Officer not long before being promoted to Policy Lead. Following another promotion in 2023, Rhian is now a grade 7 Service Manager in HM Courts and Tribunals Service.

Rhian is proud of her professional achievements, having been granted a second publication in a criminology book. More prestigiously, she received a Butler Trust Award for innovation in practice from Princess Anne at St James’s Palace.