Public sector careers

A Career as Prison Officer

Public sector careers are not about paper work you know. Take having a career as Prison officers. Whilst this may not at first appear the most glamorous of career choices this is a strong career sector that caters for its employees through many bonus schemes.

Where would I work as a Prison Officer?

Careers for Prison Officers or wardens as they are often referred to involves working across the UK’s different types of prisons – open (low security), female, high security, juveniles, young offenders and remand centres. The prison officers ensure the security and safety of prisoners as well as general maintenance for the prison.

What prison officers do?

Like all jobs that work directly with the care of people prison officers may have a routine to the day but no two days are the same. The are there to help offenders deal with life inside and address their behavior as well as supervising prison activities.

Of course they deal with any disruptions to the day and help install a sense of routine and control across the prison as well assessing what each offenders needs. They are also involved with receiving and processing new prisoners into the prison and can aid in rehabilitating and training offenders, giving prisoners advice, support and counselling via a Personal Officer scheme.

What skills do I need to be a Prison Officer?

Firstly it is important that you have good communication skills and can calm under pressure. It is also key that you are interested in dealing with people with social problems and have sensitivity to people’s problems and issues.

In addition to this you will need to be physically fit and be able to react quickly and calmly under pressure and possess leadership and management skills of people as well as everyday personable people skills. So do you think this could be a career for you

How do I go about becoming a Prison Officer

The Intensive Development Scheme provides the opportunity for graduates to progress to managing a busy operational unit within three years. Here you will complete eight weeks’ Prison Officer Entry Level Training and then serve as a prison officer for a year. You will be assessed for suitability for promotion to Senior Officer in your second year. During these two years you will complete a range of intensive training courses.

How much will I get paid?

A prison officers starting salary could start at just £17,744 plus local pay allowance of up to £4,250. However, with experience this will rise to £28,000 if you become a senior officer.

For more information on a career as a prison officer contact The Prison Officers Association www.poauk.com

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