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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: As a prison officer, you'll protect the public and support offenders in their rehabilitation.
- Company: Join His Majesty's Prison and Probation Service, making a real difference in people's lives.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 25 days holiday, childcare vouchers, and retail discounts.
- Why this job: Experience a unique role with diverse tasks, teamwork, and the chance to impact lives positively.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed; just bring your empathy, communication skills, and integrity.
- Other info: Be prepared for various shifts and weekends in this dynamic environment.
The predicted salary is between 27400 - 36500 £ per year.
Prison officers protect the public and help to make a positive impact on people's lives. If you have the integrity, skills and strength of character we’re looking for, this fast-paced role could be the start of a successful career. No two days or situations are ever the same. And, as you gain experience, you’ll find a range of opportunities to grow and develop.
There’s no such thing as a typical prison officer. Our people come from different walks of life, just like the offenders they work with. Whether you’re a parent, a teacher, have worked in retail or the armed forces, you’ll have developed the empathy, self-confidence and great communication skills we expect. No matter the challenge, you’ll take the time to build constructive, positive and professional relationships with offenders who could be at the lowest point in their lives.
Teamwork plays a vital role in this environment, so you’ll need to be fully committed to supporting your colleagues and understand the importance of acting as one team to keep the prison, offenders and everyone who works here safe. You will be required to work various shifts and weekends.
In this unique career, you’ll have the opportunity to carry out many different roles in any one day. One minute you’re a peacekeeper, the next you’re a counsellor or a teacher. You’ll work directly with prisoners in a unique environment, helping to protect the public and make a positive impact.
What You Can Expect From Us
You’ll be given great training and opportunities for progression and development - including the chance to specialise in different areas. There’s a good salary to look forward to, as well as 25 days’ holiday allowance each year, childcare vouchers, season ticket loans, retail discounts, Employee Assistance Programme and Cycle to Work scheme. The rewards aren’t all you’ll gain from a role in the prison service. There’s the sense of achievement you feel when you’ve helped an offender to get their life back on track - the kind of experience you simply won’t find anywhere else.
How To Apply
If the qualities in this role sound like you, apply now.
Prison Officer employer: HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS)
Contact Detail:
HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Prison Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the values and mission of His Majesty's Prison and Probation Service. Understanding their commitment to rehabilitation and public safety will help you align your responses during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any experience you have in roles that require strong communication and teamwork skills. Whether it's from previous jobs, volunteer work, or personal experiences, showcasing these abilities can set you apart as a candidate who can thrive in a prison environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for situational questions by thinking about how you would handle various scenarios you might face as a prison officer. This could include conflict resolution, building rapport with offenders, or working under pressure. Practising your responses can boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with current or former prison officers if possible. They can provide valuable insights into the role and the application process, and may even offer tips on what the interviewers are looking for, giving you an edge over other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to understand what being a prison officer entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and challenges of the role, as well as the skills required, such as empathy, communication, and teamwork.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experiences that demonstrate your integrity, communication skills, and ability to work in a team. Include any previous roles or situations where you've had to manage conflict or support others.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your motivation for applying and how your background aligns with the values of the prison service. Share specific examples of how you've built positive relationships in challenging situations.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS)
✨Show Your Empathy
As a prison officer, you'll be working with individuals who may be at their lowest. Demonstrating empathy during your interview can highlight your ability to connect with offenders and help them on their journey to rehabilitation.
✨Emphasise Teamwork Skills
Teamwork is crucial in a prison environment. Be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully worked as part of a team in previous roles, showcasing your commitment to collaboration and safety.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving and decision-making skills. Think about how you would handle various situations, such as conflicts or emergencies, and articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Be ready to provide examples of how you've used your communication skills to resolve issues or build relationships, whether in a professional or personal context.
