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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage in diverse roles daily, ensuring safety and support within a high-security environment.
- Company: Join HMP Stoke Heath, a vital part of the UK's justice system.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, a generous pension, and flexible working hours.
- Why this job: Make a real difference while developing skills in a unique and rewarding career.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, meet health standards, and have lived in the UK for 3 years.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our recruitment process.
The predicted salary is between 33500 - 36000 £ per year.
HMP Stoke Heath, Market Drayton TF9 2JL
Starting salary: £35,875 (for a 39 hour week inc 20% unsocial)
Overview
This is an extraordinary job. In this unique career, you’ll have the opportunity to carry out many different roles in any one day.
Key selection criteria
- communicating and influencing
- managing a quality service
- making effective decisions
- caring
Requirements
- be at least 18 years old at the commencement of employment
- meet the Civil Service Nationality requirements
- pass a medical and fitness assessment
- meet the required eyesight standard in both eyes for safety reasons
- meet a suitable standard of hearing (without the use of hearing aids)
- tattoos are permitted, including visible ones, but must not be offensive, discriminatory, violent or intimidating. Facial tattoos are generally not acceptable except for cultural, religious or medical reasons.
- to work in a high security prison (category A) you must have been a resident in the UK for the last 3 years
Application process
Once you have completed your initial application form, you will be invited to complete an online test to assess basic judgement and numerical skills. If you pass the online test, we will invite you to an online assessment centre (OAC). After the OAC, you will be allocated to a vacancy and invited to a medical and fitness test covering eyesight, hearing and basic health screening, including a blood pressure check.
Pay
The initial training is 37 hours a week. After training, you can choose to work 37, 39 or 41 hours a week. Your annual salary will reflect your weekly hours.
- 37 hours a week = £33,746 a year
- 39 hours a week = £35,875 a year
- 41 hours a week = £38,003 a year
All salary figures quoted include any additional allowances. The standard working week of a prison officer is based on a 39 hours per week shift pattern.
Benefits
- 25 days’ annual holiday (rising to 30 days after 10 years’ service)
- paid time off for public holidays and 1 extra privilege day
- Civil Service pension with employer contributions of 28.97%
- cycle to work scheme, travel loans and other benefits
Merit vacancy
This is a merit job vacancy. If you are successful at the online assessment centre, you will be added to a merit list based on your score. When all applicants have completed the assessment centre, the prison will make job offers to individuals with the highest scores first when positions become available. You can stay on the merit list for 12 months. After this, you’ll need to apply again.
Operational Support Grade Role
Our Online Assessment Centre (OAC) will determine your suitability for appointment as an operational support grade (OSG). If you are unsuccessful in applying to become a prison officer, we may offer an alternative role as an OSG.
Diversity & Inclusion
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found. To learn more please see the Civil Service People Plan and the Civil Service Diversity and Inclusion Strategy.
Reasonable adjustment support
Just tick ‘yes’ when it asks if you think you might need a reasonable adjustment.
202601: Prison Officer - HMP Stoke Heath employer: Ministry of Justice
Contact Detail:
Ministry of Justice Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 202601: Prison Officer - HMP Stoke Heath
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Research what being a prison officer at HMP Stoke Heath really involves. Understanding the day-to-day responsibilities will help you shine during interviews and assessments.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! As a prison officer, you'll need to influence and manage situations effectively. Try role-playing scenarios with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay fit and healthy! You'll need to pass a medical and fitness assessment, so start preparing now. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can make all the difference when it comes to those tests.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, keep an eye on the merit list – if you score well, you could be in line for a job offer sooner than you think!
We think you need these skills to ace 202601: Prison Officer - HMP Stoke Heath
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and what makes you unique.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to align your skills and experiences with the key selection criteria mentioned in the job description. Highlight how you communicate, manage services, and make decisions effectively.
Proofread, Proofread, Proofread!: Before hitting that submit button, give your application a thorough read. Typos and errors can distract from your qualifications, so let’s make sure everything is spot on!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand what being a prison officer at HMP Stoke Heath entails. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities and challenges of the role, as well as the specific skills required, like effective communication and decision-making.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your judgement and ability to manage difficult situations. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've had to influence others or make tough decisions, and be ready to discuss them in detail.
✨Show Your Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
The Civil Service values diversity and inclusion, so be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to a positive environment. Share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your understanding and commitment to these principles, especially in a high-security setting.
✨Stay Calm and Collected
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, especially for a role as significant as a prison officer. Practice relaxation techniques beforehand, and remember to take your time when answering questions. Staying calm will help you think clearly and present yourself confidently.
