Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead teams in challenging prison environments while focusing on rehabilitation and security.
- Company: Join HM Prison and Probation Service, responsible for running prison and probation services in England and Wales.
- Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive training programme, clear progression path, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Fast-track your career from officer to senior leader in just 3 years, making a difference where it matters.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, have people management experience or a degree, and pass fitness and security assessments.
- Other info: Embrace the realities of prison life and lead with passion to reduce re-offending and promote rehabilitation.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
There’s being a leader. Then there’s leading in a prison.
HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) is here to carry out sentences given by the courts. We’re responsible for running prison and probation services in England and Wales. Our staff come from all walks of life and perform a wide range of roles in prisons and the community.
Being a prison leader is an extraordinary job, and it can be done by someone like you. If you have an ambition to lead where it matters, we’re looking for future prison leaders to join our three-year leadership programme. If the idea of leading teams through challenging situations while focusing on rehabilitation, protecting lives and maintaining security makes you tick, the Future Prison Leaders Programme is for you.
This leadership programme like no other will see you fast-track your way from prison officer to a senior leader running your own prison department in just 3 years. With a comprehensive training programme and clear progression path, you will gain first-hand experience of working in a variety of roles and prisons to give you the skills and knowledge you’ll need to be a future prison leader.
As a prison leader, you’re all about keeping the number of re-offending prisoners down. But your Key Performance Indicators are more than just numbers: they’re about protecting the public, promoting rehabilitation, and maintaining security. And you lead and support your team to create the culture the prison operates within.
It’s not a job that can be done by everyone. But we’re not looking for everyone. We want people who don’t shy away from the realities of prison life but embrace them. Who are passionate about making a real difference in the lives of prisoners and the public. The ones who want to lead where it matters the most.
To apply you:
- must be at least 18 years old when you start your new role.
- need to have people management experience or hold a degree/level 6 qualification or be coming to the end of a degree/level 6 equivalent qualification when applying – and be able to evidence that you have a degree before your contract of employment is issued (by 10th November 2025).
You must also:
- have the right to work in the UK and Civil Service
- pass a minimum fitness test and medical assessment
- be able to secure security clearance at Counter Terrorism Level (CTC).
Future Prison Leaders Programme – England & Wales employer: HM Prison & Probation Service
Contact Detail:
HM Prison & Probation Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Future Prison Leaders Programme – England & Wales
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the values and mission of HM Prison and Probation Service. Understanding their focus on rehabilitation and public safety will help you align your responses during interviews and discussions, showcasing your commitment to these principles.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former prison leaders and staff. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of the role, as well as tips on how to navigate the application process effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the fitness test and medical assessment early. Being physically fit is crucial for this role, so start a training regimen that focuses on endurance and strength to ensure you meet the requirements comfortably.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the specific prisons and departments you may work in during the programme. Understanding the unique challenges and environments of different facilities will help you demonstrate your readiness to lead in diverse situations.
We think you need these skills to ace Future Prison Leaders Programme – England & Wales
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, take time to fully understand what being a prison leader entails. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities and challenges mentioned in the job description, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to emphasise any people management experience you have. If you hold a degree or are nearing completion, clearly state this in your CV and cover letter, as it is a key requirement for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for rehabilitation and leadership. Use specific examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead in challenging situations and your commitment to making a difference.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that all information is accurate and complete. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at HM Prison & Probation Service
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of what being a prison leader entails. Research the responsibilities, challenges, and the impact of leadership in a prison environment. This will help you articulate your motivation and suitability for the role during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your leadership abilities. Highlight situations where you've successfully managed teams, resolved conflicts, or implemented changes. This is crucial as the programme focuses on developing future leaders.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Rehabilitation
Be ready to discuss your views on rehabilitation and how it plays a role in reducing re-offending. Show your passion for making a difference in the lives of prisoners and the community, as this aligns with the core values of the Future Prison Leaders Programme.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving and decision-making skills in challenging situations. Practice responding to hypothetical scenarios related to prison management, security, and team dynamics to demonstrate your critical thinking abilities.
