At a Glance
- Tasks: Protect the public and support prisoners in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join HMP Stocken, a vital part of the UK's justice system.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, a generous pension, and flexible working hours.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and diverse backgrounds welcomed.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while building a rewarding career.
- Qualifications: Must be 18+, with strong communication skills and a commitment to teamwork.
The predicted salary is between 35746 - 40003 £ per year.
Full Time, Part Time, Part Time/Job Share, Flexible Working
Location: Oakham
Starting salary: £37,875 (for a 39 hour week inc 20% unsocial)
Overview
Prison officers protect the public and help make an impact on prisoners’ lives. This fast‑paced role could be the start of a successful career for someone with integrity, skills and strength of character. Our officers come from different walks of life. Whether you are a parent, a teacher, have worked in retail, the armed forces, or are a natural people person, you will need empathy, self-confidence, great communication skills and resilience. Teamwork is vital; you must be fully committed to supporting your colleagues and act as one team to keep the prison and everyone safe. You will be required to work various shifts, including some weekends.
Who We Are Looking For
- Be at least 18 years old at the point you commence employment
- Meet the Civil Service Nationality requirements
- Pass a medical and fitness assessment and meet required eyesight and hearing standards
- Have tattoos that are not offensive, discriminatory, violent or intimidating; facial tattoos are generally not acceptable unless for cultural, religious or medical reasons
- For a high‑security (Category A) prison, you must have lived in the UK for the last 3 years
Nationality Requirements
- 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 eligible family members under the European Union Settlement Scheme (EUSS)
- Individuals with limited leave to remain or indefinite leave to remain who were eligible to apply for EUSS on or before 31 December 2020
- Turkish nationals and certain family members with the right to work in the Civil Service
Essential Skills
- Communication and influencing skills
- Commitment to quality delivery
- Care and understanding
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 = £35,746 a year
- 39 hours a week = £37,875 a year
- 41 hours a week = £40,003 a year
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
Recruitment Process
You will be assessed on the behaviours, strengths and abilities required to become an effective prison officer, including communicating and influencing, managing a quality service, and caring. Selected candidates will complete online tests (basic judgement, numerical skills and values‑based assessment) followed by an online assessment centre (OAC). Successful candidates will be offered a position immediately if a vacancy is available or placed on a reserve list.
Medical and Fitness
Once a vacancy is identified, a medical and fitness test will be conducted, covering eyesight, hearing and basic health screening, including blood pressure.
Travel to Work
Some prison establishments are in rural locations with limited public transport. A driving licence and own transport are beneficial but not essential unless specifically required. You are responsible for arriving on time for shifts.
Additional Information
Requirements for trial periods, anti‑discrimination statements and other procedural details are provided in the full formal job description attachment.
Prison Officer - HMP Stocken in Oakham employer: Ministry of Justice
At HMP Stocken, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values integrity, teamwork, and personal growth. Our supportive work culture fosters a sense of community among staff, offering flexible working options and comprehensive benefits, including generous annual leave and a robust pension scheme. With opportunities for career advancement and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others, joining our team means becoming part of a dedicated workforce committed to safety and rehabilitation in the heart of the Midlands.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Prison Officer - HMP Stocken in Oakham
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the role inside out! Research what being a prison officer really involves, from daily tasks to the skills needed. This will help you shine during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former prison officers on LinkedIn or at local events. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about job openings. Plus, it shows your commitment to the role!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for the online assessments by doing some mock tests. Brush up on your numerical skills and judgement abilities so you can ace those assessments and stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we often have exclusive roles listed there, so don’t miss out on the chance to land your dream job as a prison officer!
We think you need these skills to ace Prison Officer - HMP Stocken in Oakham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your unique experiences and how they’ve shaped your skills. Authenticity goes a long way in making a great impression.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application for the Prison Officer role at HMP Stocken. Highlight your communication skills, teamwork experience, and any relevant background that shows you can handle the challenges of this fast-paced environment. We love seeing how you connect your past experiences to the job!
Show Your Commitment:In your written application, emphasise your dedication to supporting colleagues and maintaining safety. We’re looking for candidates who understand the importance of teamwork and are ready to step up when needed. Make it clear that you’re all in for the role!
Check Your Details:Before hitting send, double-check your application for any typos or errors. A polished application shows attention to detail and professionalism, which are key traits for a Prison Officer. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance of success!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand what being a prison officer entails. Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities, such as communication, teamwork, and managing a quality service. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Highlight your communication and influencing skills during the interview. Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you've demonstrated empathy, resilience, or teamwork. This is your chance to prove that you have the character and integrity needed for this fast-paced environment.
✨Prepare for Online Assessments
Since the recruitment process includes online tests, practice basic judgement and numerical skills beforehand. There are plenty of resources available online to help you brush up on these areas. Being well-prepared will boost your confidence and improve your chances of success.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! This shows your interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you. Consider asking about the training process, team dynamics, or how the prison supports its officers in their roles.
