Operational Support Training

Operational Support Grade (OSG) Entry Level Training

OSG training provides new staff with the foundation skills and knowledge they need to begin their Prison Service careers.

As you'd expect, there is some basic training you'll need to do before you can begin your career as an Operational Support Grade. You'll start with a two-week training course designed to equip you with the necessary knowledge, skills and values needed to become a confident Operational Support Grade.

Training is shared between home establishments and a training venue. This could be the Prison Service College (PSC) at Newbold Revel, Rugby, or one of the local training centres.

Here's how you'll spend those 3 weeks...

Week 1 - Establishment induction
You will complete a formal induction programme at your allocated establishment. The purpose of this week is workplace familiarisation, to meet your line manager and colleagues.

Weeks 2 and 3 - PSC Newbold Revel or local training centre
This is a combination of classroom based learning, practical training and team building exercises. Formative assessment throughout and summative practical and written assessments at the end helps you to identify your own progress and development needs. This is an important element for you as a new OSG and for your continuous professional development.

Custodial Care NVQ (CCNVQ) Level 2
Operational Support Grades can be given the opportunity to complete CCNVQ Level 2. This is optional; it is not a mandatory qualification. CCNVQ gives you the satisfaction of a formal qualification as well as increasing your confidence to carry out your role effectively.