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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 across the UK.
- 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 and passionate environment.
- 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 22800 - 32800 £ 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
- 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 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 potentially 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 The Mount
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Reading Specialist at HMP The Mount. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the role.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have experience in prison settings or working with individuals facing literacy challenges, make sure to emphasise this in your CV and cover letter. Use specific examples to demonstrate your ability to build relationships and solve problems.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for improving literacy among people in prison. Discuss your personal qualities such as resilience and determination, and how they will contribute to your success in this role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents 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 Organisation's Mission
Familiarise yourself with Shannon Trust's commitment to improving literacy levels in prisons. Be prepared to discuss how your values align with their mission and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Highlight any previous experience you have in prison settings or working with vulnerable populations. Share specific examples of how you've built relationships and tackled challenges in similar environments.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss scenarios where you've had to think on your feet or overcome obstacles. The role requires resilience and a problem-solving approach, so be ready to illustrate these qualities with real-life examples.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, the team, and the programmes you'll be involved in. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
