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- Tasks: Lead and develop reading and numeracy programmes for people in prison.
- Company: Join Shannon Trust, dedicated to improving literacy in prisons.
- Benefits: 30 days holiday, pension contributions, life insurance, and paid volunteering days.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by helping others improve their literacy skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in prison settings and strong relationship-building skills.
- Other info: Fixed-term role with potential for permanent position and supportive culture.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Do you want to join an organisation committed to addressing low literacy levels amongst people in prison? Shannon Trust are delighted to be working with His Majesty’s Prison & Probation Service (HMPPS) to provide peer‑led learning programmes at HMP Full Sutton. Working closely with the prison and its staff, people in prison, Shannon Trust volunteers and mentors, this post will lead the delivery and development of our prison‑based reading and numeracy programme, maximising opportunities for people in prison to learn to read.
Ideally, you will have some experience of prison settings underpinned by the ability to build relationships and personal qualities that include resilience, determination and a problem‑solving approach. This role is a fixed‑term role until 31st December 2026, with the opportunity to be made permanent subject to contract renewal. The role will be prison‑based.
Employee benefits include:
- Company contribution to pension scheme of up to 5%
- 30 days holiday plus bank holidays
- Life insurance
- Paid volunteering days
- Discounts via Reward Gateway
- Employee Assistance Programme
Culture – our people really want to work for the organisation. We welcome job applications from people with lived experience of the criminal justice system and do not routinely ask for details of any criminal convictions. These roles do require prison security clearance, so we will need to ask for details of any relevant criminal convictions before an offer of employment is finalised.
Please note this role is subject to contract award. Interviews are planned for the week commencing 14th January 2026.
Seniority Level: Entry level
Employment Type: Full‑time
Job Function: Education and Training
Industry: Civic and Social Organizations
Location: Rawcliffe, England, United Kingdom
Reading Support Specialist - HMP Full Sutton employer: Shannon Trust
Contact Detail:
Shannon Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Reading Support Specialist - HMP Full Sutton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education and prison sectors. Attend events or join online forums where you can connect with others who share your passion for literacy and support in prisons.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by researching Shannon Trust and HMP Full Sutton. Understand their mission and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills during interviews. Think of examples from your past where you've tackled challenges, especially in educational or supportive roles. This will demonstrate your resilience and determination.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our mission to improve literacy in prisons.
We think you need these skills to ace Reading Support Specialist - HMP Full Sutton
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 Reading Support Specialist. We want to see how you can contribute to addressing low literacy levels in prison settings.
Showcase Your Resilience: In your written application, emphasise your personal qualities like resilience and determination. We value these traits highly, especially in challenging environments like prisons, so let us know how you've demonstrated them in the past.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so avoid jargon and make sure your passion for supporting literacy shines through without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Shannon Trust
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Reading Support Specialist and the specific challenges faced in prison settings. Familiarise yourself with Shannon Trust's mission and how they aim to improve literacy levels. This will show your genuine interest and commitment during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences that highlight your ability to build relationships, demonstrate resilience, and solve problems. Think about situations where you've successfully supported others in learning or overcoming challenges, as these will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations in a prison environment. Practice responses to scenarios involving conflict resolution or supporting someone struggling with literacy. This will help you articulate your thought process and approach effectively.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the current reading programmes, how success is measured, or the support available for staff. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
