At a Glance
- Tasks: Support residents while delivering fitness and wellbeing programmes in a secure environment.
- Company: Join Serco, a global leader in public services with a mission to make a difference.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, training, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with varied shifts and excellent progression pathways.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by promoting health and wellbeing for individuals in challenging situations.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 2 Fitness Instructor and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 31000 £ per year.
Detention Custody Officer and Physical Education Instructor
Location
Yarl's Wood Immigration Removal Centre, MK44 2FQ
Schedule
Full-time, Permanent, Variety of Shift Patterns
Salary
£31,000 per annum, rising to £32,000 following successful completion of probation and £35,000 after 2 years' service.
Based on the success profile, this role combines detention custody duties with the delivery of structured physical activities and wellbeing programmes.
This isn't just a security role. It's a role that changes lives.
As a
Detention Custody Officer and Physical Education Instructor , you'll help create a safe, respectful and supportive environment for people going through challenging circumstances.
Every day is different.
One moment you could be supporting residents within the centre, the next you could be leading physical activities, encouraging participation, promoting wellbeing and helping individuals build confidence through sport and recreation.
This is a role for people who stay calm under pressure, communicate with empathy and genuinely want to make a positive difference.
- Why this role matters
- You help maintain a safe and secure environment for residents, colleagues and visitors.
- You treat everyone with dignity, fairness and respect.
- You promote positive behaviour and wellbeing through physical activity.
- You support people from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
- You play an important role in creating a positive and supportive centre environment.
- What you'll actually do
As a DCO-PEI, you'll combine security, welfare and physical education responsibilities, including:
- Supervising residents and maintaining safety and security across the centre.
- Delivering structured fitness, sports and recreational activities.
- Encouraging participation and promoting physical and mental wellbeing.
- Building positive, professional relationships with residents.
- Responding to incidents calmly and professionally.
- Supporting activities, education, employment and wider centre regimes.
- Organising sports events, competitions and wellbeing initiatives.
- Completing reports and documentation accurately.
- Working collaboratively with colleagues to support resident welfare and centre operations.
You're made for this if you are...
- Calm and resilient under pressure.
- Confident communicating with a wide range of people.
- Passionate about health, fitness and encouraging positive participation.
- Able to manage challenging situations professionally.
- Respectful of people from all cultures, backgrounds and experiences.
- A strong team player who enjoys helping others succeed.
Essential requirements
- NVQ Level 2 Fitness Instructor qualification (or equivalent).
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.
- Experience working in a people-focused environment.
- A commitment to delivering excellent customer service.
- The ability to remain professional, composed and resilient.
- What shifts look like
- Average 40 hours per week
- Mixture of day and night shifts
- Structured rota pattern
- Overtime opportunities may be available
- Full attendance required during initial training period
- What you'll get
- Training & Development
- Fully paid 7-week initial training programme
- Specialist training in detention custody, conflict management and resident welfare
- Physical education and activity delivery training
- Ongoing professional development opportunities
- Clear progression pathways into operational, specialist and leadership roles
Benefits
- 224 hours annual leave (including bank holidays)
- Matched pension contributions up to 6%
- Free on-site parking
- Subsidised meals and one free meal per shift
- Full uniform provided
- Employee discounts and Blue Light Card eligibility
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Career development opportunities across Serco
What we're looking for
Success in this role is built on
- Customer focus and service delivery
- Effective communication
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Good judgement and problem solving
- Personal accountability
- Adaptability and resilience
- Respect for diversity and inclusion
- Commitment to continuous learning and development
- Application process
- Online application
- Virtual interview via Microsoft Teams
- Assessment Day including practical activities and centre tour
- Pre-employment checks and vetting
- Seven-week training programme
- Eligibility and checks (important)
To be considered, you must
- Have the right to work in the UK (visa sponsorship is not available)
- Typically have at least 3 years' UK residency
- Be able to obtain Home Office Counter Terrorist Check (CTC) clearance
- Pass an Enhanced DBS check including Adult and Child Barred List checks
- Provide 5 years of checkable employment and address history
Start a career where fitness, wellbeing and people come together.
Apply today and help make a difference at Yarl's Wood Immigration Removal Centre.
A little bit about us
At Serco, everyone plays a vital part in delivering essential public services that make a real difference.
As a global team of 50,000 people across Defence, Transport, Justice, Immigration, Healthcare, Leisure and Citizen Services, we’re united by a shared purpose: to improve the services that communities rely on.
Guided by our values of Trust, Care, Innovation and Pride, our people make meaningful impact, every single day.
Our inclusive recruitment commitment
We prioritise your skills and potential.
As a Disability Confident Leader, a top Great British Employer of Veterans, and a Gold Inclusive Employer Standard holder, we champion equal opportunities for all.
We offer flexible and hybrid working where possible and make reasonable adjustments throughout recruitment and employment.
Guaranteed Interview Scheme
Applicants with disabilities, veterans and people with convictions, who meet the minimum job criteria, are guaranteed an interview.
Simply opt into the relevant scheme on the application form.
Ban The Box
We also support fair access for those with unspent criminal convictions through our ‘Ban the Box’ pledge (some roles may have security exemptions).
For support with your application, please contact j&icareers UK@serco. com.
immigrationjobs dcojobs
Detention Custody Officer-Physical Education Instructor employer: Serco
Serco is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and development. As a Ward Host Assistant at University Hospital Southampton, you will enjoy flexible shift options and the chance to make a meaningful impact on patient care, all while being part of a team that values hospitality and customer service excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Detention Custody Officer-Physical Education Instructor
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Serco!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
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Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Serco.
We think you need these skills to ace Detention Custody Officer-Physical Education Instructor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Serco. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Serco and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Serco. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Serco's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Serco
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Serco.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Serco will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Serco and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
