Prison Workshop Instructor – HMP Erlestoke

About the role

The Prison Workshop Instructor at HMP Erlestoke is responsible for delivering supervised, non‑specialist workshop activities to prisoners. Working on‑site in a secure environment, the role aims to provide work experience that mirrors employment outside prison while maintaining safety and discipline.

Key responsibilities

• Induct and train prisoners in workshop health and safety, COSHH, and safe use of machinery and tools.
• Supervise daily workshop operations, set work schedules, monitor targets and quality standards.
• Manage and control prisoners during workshop sessions, including security checks such as metal‑detector scans.
• Maintain accountability for tools, equipment and raw materials, ensuring they are safe and securely stored.
• Participate in prisoner selection for workshop placement and tailor support to individual learning needs.
• Conduct product development reviews to sustain output levels and meet contractual requirements.

Required profile

• Ability to work in a secure, rotational prison environment.
• Strong supervisory skills with a focus on safety, discipline and motivation.
• Willingness to adapt training to diverse prisoner needs.
• Commitment to upholding prison security and control at all times.

Required skills

• Health and Safety procedures
• Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)
• Machinery and tool operation
• Metal‑detector scanning and basic security searches