"A Career That Changes Lives: Prison Education with The Protocol Group"

The Protocol Group connects talented education professionals with rewarding careers in prison education and the wider skills sector, offering expert support, career development opportunities, and the chance to make a lasting impact through learning and rehabilitation.
About The Protocol Group 

At The Protocol Group, we specialise in helping professionals like you find rewarding careers across the UK’s education and skills sector. 

With over 30 years’ experience, we work closely with colleges, training providers, and organisations within prison education to connect talented individuals with opportunities where they can make a real difference. 

Our team understands the unique nature of these roles and will support you every step of the way from exploring opportunities and securing your next position, to building a long-term and meaningful career. 

We offer access to a wide range of roles, along with guidance, insight, and ongoing support to help you succeed in a sector that truly makes an impact. 

With The Protocol Group, you’re not just finding a job - you’re building a career with purpose. 

What is Prison Education? 

Prison education delivers structured learning and skills development within custodial settings across England. 

It provides individuals in custody with access to: 

  • English and maths (functional skills) 

  • Vocational training, including construction, catering and trade-based skills 

  • Employability and work-readiness skills 

  • Personal and social development programmes 

At its core, prison education is about creating opportunities for individuals to rebuild their lives, develop practical skills, and support successful rehabilitation through learning. 

Why It Matters 

Many individuals in custody have experienced barriers to education and employment, including disrupted learning and limited access to qualifications. 

Prison education provides a fresh start, enabling individuals to: 

  • Gain recognised qualifications 

  • Build confidence and self-belief 

  • Develop practical, job-ready skills 

  • Prepare for employment on release 

Education plays a critical role in supporting rehabilitation and long-term change. 

Career Opportunities in Prison Education 

We recruit for a wide range of roles across prison education, including: 

Vocational Tutors 
Carpentry | Plumbing | Construction | Catering 

Academic Tutors 
English & Maths | ESOL | IT & Digital Skills 

Leadership Roles 
Curriculum Leads | Education Managers | Assistant Managers 

Why Choose Prison Education? 

Prison education offers a unique and highly rewarding working environment: 

  • Smaller class sizes 

  • Learners who are motivated and engaged 

  • Structured, focused sessions 

  • A calm and purposeful setting 

Many professionals find the work more impactful and rewarding than traditional education environments. 

A Safe, Structured Environment 

Custodial settings are highly structured environments where safety and professionalism are a priority. 

You will benefit from: 

  • Clearly defined procedures and routines 

  • Ongoing support from experienced staff 

  • Full induction and training 

  • A secure and well-managed workplace 

You are always supported and never placed in an unsupported situation. 

Build Your Career 

Prison education roles offer strong opportunities for professional development: 

  • Continuous professional development (CPD) 

  • Support with teaching qualifications (AET, PGCE, CertEd) 

  • Opportunities to progress into leadership roles 

  • Experience working with diverse learners 

Make a Real Difference 

This is more than a teaching role - it is an opportunity to change lives. 

You will support individuals to: 

  • Build confidence and self-belief 

  • Achieve meaningful qualifications 

  • Develop new skills and aspirations 

  • Plan for a positive future 

The impact of your work extends far beyond the classroom. 

Be Part of Something Bigger 

Working in prison education contributes to wider social impact, including: 

  • Supporting rehabilitation 

  • Improving employment outcomes 

  • Reducing reoffending 

  • Strengthening communities 

This is a career with purpose and lasting impact. 

Start Your Journey 

If you are looking for a role that is challenging, rewarding, and genuinely meaningful, prison education could be your next step. 

Join The Protocol Group and help change lives through learning. 

Contact: 
Brad Hawthorne 
bhawthorne@protocol.co.uk 
0115 911 1290