The Importance of Education Roles Within Prisons
When we think about education, the typical image is a school classroom, a college, or perhaps a university lecture hall. But one of the most transformative educational environments exists behind prison walls – and it’s one that’s often overlooked.
At Bookmark, we work closely with providers who deliver education within the justice system, and we’ve seen the profound impact that skilled and dedicated educators can have in these settings. Education in prisons changes lives – not just for learners, but for their families, communities, and wider society.
Why prison education is so vital
Many people in custody arrive with limited qualifications, interrupted schooling, and low confidence. It’s estimated that 47% of UK prisoners have no qualifications, and a significant number have undiagnosed learning difficulties or past experiences that have left them disengaged from traditional education.
For these individuals, prison education often represents a second chance – sometimes the first real opportunity they’ve had to learn in a supportive, focused environment. It helps build self-worth, develop employable skills, and create a more positive identity. In short, it plays a key role in rehabilitation.
Evidence shows that prisoners who take part in education are significantly less likely to reoffend, which has a direct benefit for public safety and the economy. Education isn’t just about passing exams – it’s about equipping people with the skills to build a better life once they leave prison.
The range of roles within prison education
The education offer in prisons is wide-ranging. From functional skills tutors in English and Maths to vocational trainers in areas like construction, catering, or hairdressing, these roles help prepare learners for life beyond the prison gates. There are also opportunities for ESOL specialists, IT Tutors, Careers Advisers, and Personal Development Coaches, all supporting different aspects of learner progress.
Equally important are the support staff: Administrators, Learning Support Assistants, and Education Managers who keep things running day-to-day. Every role contributes to a joined-up approach that helps people gain qualifications, confidence, and purpose.
These roles often require a different kind of teaching approach — one that’s flexible, empathetic, and responsive to the needs of diverse learners. But for the right person, they can be incredibly fulfilling.
Changing lives, one lesson at a time
What sets prison education apart is the impact it has — not just academically, but emotionally. Many learners in custody are engaging with education for the first time in years. Some are learning to read, write, or solve maths problems after years of struggling in silence. Others are finding new interests and discovering talents they never knew they had.
These small milestones – gaining a qualification, writing a CV, completing a personal development course – can be turning points. They help people see themselves in a new light and imagine a future beyond their sentence.
Challenging misconceptions
Despite the clear benefits, prison education is sometimes misunderstood. Concerns about safety or misconceptions about prison life can put people off exploring roles in this sector. In reality, education in prisons is delivered in structured, secure environments with training and support in place for staff.
The focus is on rehabilitation, respect, and opportunity. And for many educators, once they’ve experienced teaching in this setting, they find it hard to go back – not because it’s easier, but because the rewards are so meaningful.
To find out more, and to discover the opportunities Bookmark has to offer within the prison sector, contact our friendly team today.
