Probationary constables Ariann Fernie, 23, Timothy Allman, 28, and Steven Uglow, 22, completed the first part of their studies at the NSW Police Academy at Goulburn on Friday - three of a class of 170 budding officers - and spent their first day learning the ropes at Lake Illawarra station on Monday.

While it seems a quick turnaround, all three agreed they were eager to put what they had learnt at the academy to use and get some hands-on experience.

"It's good to get some real life experience, not just working from textbooks," probationary constable Uglow said.

The three officers come to the job armed with a wealth of local knowledge, after growing up in Lake Illawarra, Bellambi and Corrimal respectively.

Each has a different vision for their life on the force. Constable Fernie is keen to work with youth, encouraged to join the police after her high school's police liaison officer proved a "positive role model" for students, while Constable Allman hopes to join police rescue.

They will complete 12 months' on-the-job training and study by distance education with Charles Sturt University before they graduate with an Associate Degree in Policing.

Detective Acting Superintendent Andrew Koutsoufis said the recruits were a welcome boost to Lake Illawarra's policing resources.