You could apply to do a Custody and Detention Professional Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

To do this apprenticeship, you'll need:

• GCSEs grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, in English and maths

You could apply directly to be a prison officer. You do not need qualifications as personal qualities are more important in this role.

You'll need to take an online test to check your judgement and number skills.

If you pass, you'll attend an assessment day where you'll be tested on your:

• number, reading and writing skills
• fitness
• health, hearing and eyesight

You'll also have an interview and take part in role play to see if you have the right personal qualities to be a prison officer.

You'll need:

• knowledge of public safety and security
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• to be flexible and open to change
• leadership skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
• to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

You'll need to:

• pass enhanced background checks
• be over 18 years of age
• pass a medical check

As a prison officer, you could:

• keep prisoners secure and support those who are vulnerable
• carry out security checks and searches
• maintain order, sometimes using authorised physical control and restraint
• go with prisoners on external visits like court appearances
• prepare prisoners for release through rehabilitation programmes
• update records, write reports and promote anti-bullying and suicide prevention policies

You could work in a prison.

Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding.

You may need to wear a uniform.