At a Glance
- Tasks: Protect the public and support prisoners in building positive lives.
- Company: Join HMP Sudbury, a diverse and impactful workplace.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, a generous pension, and more perks.
- Other info: Flexible shifts available; great career progression opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, meet health standards, and have strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 35875 - 35875 £ per year.
Location: HMP Sudbury, 20 Ashbourne Rd, Oaks Green, Ashbourne DE6 5HW
Employment type: Full Time
Closing date: 1 June 2026
Start salary: £35,875 per annum for a 39 hour week (incl 20% unsocial).
Region: Midlands
Vacancy type: Merit
Job Overview
Prison officers protect the public and help make an impact on prisoners' lives. This fast paced role offers an opportunity to carry out a variety of duties including peacekeeping, counselling and teaching. Join a diverse team and work across a range of shifts, including weekends.
Responsibilities
- Maintain safety and order within the prison.
- Counsel, coach and support prisoners to help them build positive relationships and progress.
- Work as part of a team and support colleagues to keep the prison safe.
- Perform routine and emergency duties as required.
- Attend to shift patterns which may include evenings, nights, weekends and public holidays.
Eligibility and Requirements
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Meet Civil Service nationality requirements.
- Pass a medical and fitness assessment.
- Meet the required eyesight standard in both eyes (with or without corrective lenses).
- Have suitable hearing (without hearing aids).
- Tattoos permitted provided they are not offensive or violent; facial tattoos generally not acceptable unless for cultural, religious or medical reasons.
- If working at a category A (high security) prison, have lived in the UK for the last three years.
Nationality Requirements
- UK nationals.
- Nationals of the Republic of Ireland.
- Nationals of Commonwealth countries with the right to work in the UK.
- Nationals of the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein and family members with settled or pre settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme.
- Individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible for the EU Settlement Scheme on or before 31 December 2020.
- Turkish nationals and certain family members of Turkish nationals with accrued right to work in the Civil Service.
Essential Skills
- Communication and influencing.
- Commitment to quality.
- Effective decision making.
- Care and understanding.
Pay
- 37 hours a week: £33,746 per year.
- 39 hours a week: £35,875 per year.
- 41 hours a week: £38,003 per year.
Benefits
- 25 days' annual holiday (30 days after 10 years' service).
- Paid time off for public holidays and one extra privilege day.
- Civil Service pension with employer contributions of 28.97 %.
- Cycle to work scheme, travel loans and other benefits.
Assessment Process
Recruitment includes online tests and an online assessment centre (OAC) covering behavioural and numerical skills, written and spoken English.
- Stage 1 - Online test for judgement and numerical skills.
- Stage 2 - Online values based assessment.
- OAC - Evaluation of behaviours, strengths and decision making.
Successful applicants are placed on a merit list and may receive a job offer when a position becomes available.
Medical & Fitness
Applicants must attend a UK based medical and fitness assessment centre for eyesight, hearing and basic health screening.
Working Hours & Shifts
Prisons operate 24/7. Typical shift patterns include evenings, nights, weekends, public holidays. Most prisons use a changing shift pattern of 39 hours a week.
Travel to Work
A driving licence and own transport are beneficial but not essential unless specified. Applicants should consider the role's rural location and transport options.
Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship
May be available subject to eligibility and UK Immigration Rules. Sponsorship is not guaranteed; applicants must ensure they hold the right to work in the UK.
202605: Prison Officer - HMP Sudbury employer: Job Search Place Limited
HMP Sudbury is an exceptional employer, offering a rewarding career as a Prison Officer where you can make a significant impact on the lives of prisoners while ensuring public safety. With a commitment to employee development, a supportive work culture, and competitive benefits including a generous pension scheme and annual leave, this role provides a unique opportunity to grow within a diverse team in a rural setting. Join us in shaping positive change and enjoy the satisfaction of contributing to a meaningful cause.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 202605: Prison Officer - HMP Sudbury
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Research what being a Prison Officer really involves, from maintaining safety to supporting prisoners. This will help you stand out in interviews and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former Prison Officers on LinkedIn or at local events. They can give you insider tips and maybe even refer you for the job. Plus, it shows you're proactive!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills! Use mock interviews to get comfortable with common questions. Focus on your communication and decision-making skills, as these are key for the role. We can help you with resources to ace this!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest updates and tips to help you land that Prison Officer position at HMP Sudbury.
We think you need these skills to ace 202605: Prison Officer - HMP Sudbury
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Prison Officer. We want to see how you can contribute to maintaining safety and supporting prisoners in their journey.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a Prison Officer, effective communication is key. Use your written application to demonstrate your ability to convey information clearly and persuasively. We love seeing examples of how you've influenced or supported others in the past.
Be Honest and Authentic:We appreciate authenticity! Be honest about your experiences and motivations for applying. Share why you’re passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of prisoners and how you can contribute to a diverse team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Prison Officer. Familiarise yourself with the key duties like maintaining safety, counselling prisoners, and working as part of a team. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Prison Officer, effective communication is crucial. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully communicated or influenced others. Whether it's resolving conflicts or providing support, demonstrating your ability to connect with people will be a big plus.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions during the interview that assess your decision-making and problem-solving skills. Think about situations where you've had to make quick decisions or handle emergencies. Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Understand the Assessment Process
Familiarise yourself with the recruitment process, including online tests and the assessment centre. Brush up on your numerical skills and practice behavioural assessments. Knowing what to expect will help you feel more prepared and less anxious on the day.
