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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: 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 24000 - 32000 £ per year.
Location: HMP The Mount (Hertfordshire)
Department: Prison delivery
Salary: £28,274 per annum
Hours: Full time (35 hours)
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 The Mount. 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 a company contribution to pension scheme of up to 5%, 30 days holiday plus bank holidays, life insurance, paid volunteering days, discounts via Reward Gateway and an 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.
Interviews are planned for: 1st August 2025
Reading Specialist - HMP The Mount employer: Shannon Trust
Contact Detail:
Shannon Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Reading Specialist - HMP The Mount
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific literacy challenges faced by individuals in prison. Understanding these issues will help you demonstrate your commitment to improving literacy levels during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals who have experience in prison education or rehabilitation. They can provide insights and potentially refer you to opportunities within organisations like Shannon Trust.
✨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, especially in educational or support settings.
✨Tip Number 4
Research Shannon Trust's values and mission. Being able to articulate how your personal values align with theirs will make a strong impression during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Reading Specialist - HMP The Mount
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 your relevant experience, particularly in prison settings or educational roles. Emphasise any previous work with literacy programmes or similar initiatives to demonstrate your suitability for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for improving literacy among people in prison. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that relate to the role, and explain why you want to work with Shannon Trust specifically.
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 in 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. Familiarise yourself with the specific challenges faced in prison settings and how your skills can address low literacy levels.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss any relevant experience you have, particularly in educational or prison environments. Highlight your ability to build relationships and demonstrate resilience, as these qualities are crucial for this role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities. Think of examples from your past where you've successfully navigated challenges, especially in educational or support roles.
✨Express Your Passion
Convey your enthusiasm for working with individuals in prison and your commitment to improving literacy. Share any personal motivations or experiences that drive your passion for this important work.
