Prison officer : Training

For all prison officers, the first week is spent getting to know the departments of the prison and how they work. This is followed by an intensive course at a training college aimed at developing the ability to work with prisoners. The entry-level training course lasts eight weeks (six in Scotland). Officers learn control and restraint techniques, search and security procedures, and court duties. There is also a focus on developing interpersonal and communication skills. On returning to prison, officers are given a brief induction course. They are then supervised by more experienced officers once the work as a prison officer really begins.

For those on the National Offender Management Service (NOMS) Graduate Programme , the route first involves completing full training to become a prison officer, followed by up to 12 months carrying out the full range of prison officer duties. Progression is then to senior officer, with responsibility for a group of staff, and then to trainee operational manager (a middle management governor position). At each stage, candidates sit the key assessments and are supported by the leadership and management development programme, with both on- and off-the-job mentors and a dedicated training programme. Within three years of joining the scheme, graduates could be head of a busy unit or function within a prison.

The probation period for prison officers is one year in England and Wales. In Scotland, new officers have a one-year probation period, but must also obtain SVQ Level 3 in Custodial Care within the first two years.

There is regular physical training - prison officers must pass a fitness test every year.

Increasing emphasis is placed on developing people on the job. As prison officers gain experience, training becomes more tailored to individual development needs. For example, there are a number of management training opportunities available.