Correctional Officer training

CSC30120 Certificate III in Correctional Practice (Adult Custodial)

Eight weeks of classroom training – full time

This is a formal classroom training environment which covers theoretical knowledge to facilitate understanding and performance in:

 

roles and structures of the department

prisoner management – including reducing re-offending, rehabilitation and re-integration

personal safety

institutional security

records administration

report writing

communication and  practical workplace skills

use of computerised database systems.

Four weeks in-service roster ‘on the job’ training – full time

Skills

learn to use a case management model which assists prisoners’ care, rehabilitation and skill development

gain experience in safe, secure and humane control of prisoners

observe custodial interactions and practice skills prior to commencement of duties

opportunity to see practical application of learnt theory.

Two weeks of classroom training – prior to 12 month probationary period – full time

This is a formal classroom training environment conducted towards the end of the initial 12 month period which covers:

mental health first aid

situational awareness and incident management

career development and pathways in DCS

Expectations

Trainee and Probationary Correctional Officers will:

interact closely and communicate directly with prisoners

receive training, assistance and direction from qualified Correctional Officers

perform a range of duties related to the security, safety and welfare of prisoners

contribute to the reduction of re-offending and rehabilitation outcomes of prisoners.

Formal testing

The Trainee Correctional Officer (TCO) will be undertaking formal competency, task and research based assessments conducted at regular intervals through-out the initial training period.

Two formal performance reviews will also be conducted throughout the initial 12 weeks.

Supervision after training

After successfully completing the 12 week course, the Probationary Correctional Officer (PCO) is expected to demonstrate competency in a range of tasks for the remainder of the probationary period.

There are three formal performance reviews during this period, during which evidence of competency for Certificate III in Correctional Practice must be gathered.

Graduation

Probationary Correctional Officers who successfully complete their training, demonstrate competence and satisfy their performance reviews will be eligible for the Certificate III in Correctional Practice (Adult Custodial).

This qualification is issued under the Australian Qualification Framework and is recognised Australia wide.