Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop reading and numeracy programmes for people in prison.
- Company: Join Shannon Trust, dedicated to improving literacy in prisons.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days holiday, pension contributions, life insurance, and discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on lives while working in a supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Experience in prison settings and strong relationship-building skills are essential.
- Other info: Open to applicants with lived experience of the criminal justice system.
The predicted salary is between 16964 - 16964 £ per year.
Location: HMP Morton Hall (Lincolnshire)
Department: Prison delivery
Salary: £16,964 per annum
Hours: 21 hours (3 days a week - one of which must be a Friday)
Job Type: Part time
Contract Type: Permanent
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 literacy and numeracy programmes across a number of prisons. We now have the opportunity to provide a service at HMP Morton Hall. Working closely with the prison and their 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 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
The biggest benefit though is our 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: 30th July 2025.
Reading Specialist - HMP Morton Hall employer: Shannon Trust
Contact Detail:
Shannon Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Reading Specialist - HMP Morton Hall
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced by individuals in prison regarding literacy. Understanding their unique circumstances will help you connect better during interviews and demonstrate your commitment to making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals who have experience in prison education or rehabilitation. Engaging with them can provide valuable insights and may even lead to recommendations that could strengthen your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your problem-solving skills and resilience in real-life scenarios. Think of examples where you've successfully navigated challenges, as these qualities are crucial for the role of a Reading Specialist.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Shannon Trust and its mission thoroughly. Being able to articulate how your values align with theirs during the interview will show your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Reading Specialist - HMP Morton Hall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Reading Specialist position. Highlight key skills such as relationship building, resilience, and problem-solving in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect relevant experience, particularly any work in prison settings or with literacy programmes. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to engage with diverse groups and support learning.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for improving literacy among people in prison. Mention your understanding of the challenges faced by this demographic and how your skills can contribute to their learning journey.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Shannon Trust
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly read the job description and understand the responsibilities of a Reading Specialist. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the role, especially in relation to working in prison settings.
✨Showcase Your Resilience
Given the nature of the role, it's important to demonstrate your resilience and determination. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've overcome challenges, particularly in educational or support roles.
✨Highlight Relationship-Building Skills
Building relationships is key in this position. Think of specific instances where you've successfully built rapport with individuals from diverse backgrounds, especially in challenging environments. This will show your ability to connect with people in prison.
✨Prepare for Security Questions
Since this role requires prison security clearance, be ready to discuss any relevant criminal convictions if applicable. Approach this topic honestly and confidently, focusing on how your experiences have shaped your understanding and approach to the role.
