We launched the Working in the Prison Service blog about a year ago back in December 2017 and since then we’ve received over 1,000 comments. This is fantastic and we’re glad to see so much conversation happening on the blog. However, we also noticed that some of the same queries were frequently coming up.
So, we’ve produced this blog based on the top 10 most common questions you’ve asked us over the past year.
1. Where’s the nearest POELT centre to my home?
We get asked this question a lot, but we don’t give out specific locations. This is because, for your Prison Officer Entry Level Training, HMPPS uses multiple training venues around the country and allocate you to ones that have available spaces.
This means you may not be at the training centre that’s closest to your home.
But, we always try to take into consideration where you live, the prison you’ve applied to, and your personal circumstances. If you’re placed a bit further from home, then we arrange residential accommodation for you Monday to Friday, and you're back home at weekends.
If you have any concerns, please raise them with our recruitment team at the stage they call you to discuss your start and training dates.
2. I’m attending my POELT on residential. Can I leave items in the room over the weekend and are there cooking facilities?
Depending on where you’re doing your POELT, you’ll need to speak with the accommodation (either the residential training centre or hotel) to find out if there is any storage.
In terms of meals, there should be a cafeteria where you can buy lunch. Accommodation should also provide basic cooking facilities but, if you want to be sure for your specific residential, please speak with your mentor who you’ll meet during your first week at your allocated prison.
3. The last 2 weeks of my POELT will be over Christmas, how will this affect training?
Usually our POELT colleges do not run over the Christmas period. Your prison will let you know if this is the case and what arrangements will be in place for you during this period.
4. Can I transfer my ARC accreditation to another prison?
Yes, you can transfer a live Assessment & Recruitment Centre (ARC) accreditation to more than one prison application by calling the Recruitment Contact Centre on 0845 241 5358.
Once you’ve been given a provisional offer from 1 of the prisons you’ve applied to, you’ll then be withdrawn from all your other applications.
If you decline this offer, then you can ask the recruitment team for your other applications to be left live.
Please be aware there’s no guarantee that because 1 prison had offered you a position that you’ll automatically be offered a position at the other prisons you’ve applied to straight away, as this all depends on vacancies and your position on the merit list.
How do I transfer my ARC from an adult prison to a Young Offenders prison?
After passing your ARC, you’ll need to pass additional assessments in order to work with young people. This will involve taking 2 extra role plays and additional interview questions at a separate ARC. Please apply for the relevant vacancy and contact the recruitment team to inform them that you’ve already passed the adult parts of your ARC.
5. When and how do I order my uniform?
You’ll be asked to fill in your uniform request form at your ARC.
6. When will my probation start?
The probation period for a new prison officer lasts for 12 months and it starts at your prison, 1 week before you attend your POELT.
7. What’s the difference between a merit campaign and a pass campaign?
Pass campaigns and merit campaigns both have merit lists, which you can remain on for up to 12 months. Once these 12 months expire you’ll need to re-apply again.
The reserve list is also known as the merit list.
Merit campaigns
You’ll be allocated a vacancy in order of merit, based on your performance at the ARC. This means no candidate will be allocated a position until all candidates have completed their ARC, or by the closing date of the campaign. Please note that assessments run for 8 weeks after the campaign closing date. Once you’re allocated a vacancy, you’ll then begin pre-employment/security vetting checks.
Pass campaigns
You’ll be allocated to the next available vacancy and then you’ll begin your pre-employment/security vetting checks.
8. I’m on a merit list, why is the job still up and why is the prison still recruiting?
We run ongoing recruitment in prisons where we need to maintain a merit list to meet our recruitment requirements. The recruitment process can be lengthy, with vetting taking about 12 weeks, so we need to ensure that we have sufficient candidates to meet current and future recruitment needs, which we can do through a merit list.
Recruitment campaigns won’t close until all candidates have finished the assessment process so that HMPPS can confirm the order of the merit list, since job offers are based on your score at the ARC.
So, even though you may be on a merit list, this does not necessarily mean that all vacancies at a prison have been filled yet. Once the merit order is confirmed, we’ll start making job offers as vacancies become available throughout the 12 month period.
9. What do I wear for training?
You’ll be given your uniform before your first day at your prison. You’ll wear your uniform during the training, and if you’re attending your training at a residential you can wear your own clothes during your own time.
You will be supplied with any extra clothing/protective equipment as required throughout your training.
Your uniform will need to be kept smart throughout your training.
10. What happens if I fail my...
Online test
If you’ve failed your online test you’re more than welcome to apply to other prisons but will need to wait a minimum of 2 months before re-applying to any prison.
ARC
If you’re close to the pass mark on your fitness test, you’ll be contacted and invited back to try again. However if you’ve failed any other element of your ARC you’ll now need to wait 6 months before reapplying for either the same or a different prison.
Meanwhile, you might also like to take a look at other roles within HMPPS, such as the Operational Support Grade (OSG) where you’ll play a crucial part in keeping prisons safe and running smoothly.
Pre-employment/security vetting checks
You’ll need to wait a full 12 months before reapplying again.
We hope this post helps clear up most of your queries. If you have any other question that isn’t covered in the above, please explore our guidance blog posts or leave a comment below.
To find out more information about working for the prison service, please visit our recruitment website.
120 comments
Comment by Claire posted on
Hi I don't know if this has already been put on the blog but my status has changed to pre employment checks higher level and/ health outstanding any information on this would be great many thanks
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Claire,
This would mean that the vetting team are still yet to receive your completed health forms. Please keep an eye on your emails as they’ll be in touch to ask you for those documents, but if you’re stuck in vetting for more than 6 weeks please get in touch with the vetting contact point (VCP) at the prison you’ve applied to. You’ll need to ring the main prison number and ask to be put through to the VCP or People Hub.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Claire posted on
Thanks Helena
I called scl and they informed me health questionair is complete it's just the vetting I'm waiting for
Many thanks
Comment by Gair Talboys posted on
Hi Helena,
I've started my POELT this week. Can you tell me when we / i can expect my first pay? I was assuming it would be the last working day February. Am i assuming right? And if so will this be a full months wage.
Regards
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Gair,
Yes, you should receive your full wage at the end of February. If you don’t, please ask your line manager.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Moore posted on
Hello
I was a prison officer for 3 years and left 1 year ago , I'm looking to return now to the same prison will I have to go through the same checks and training again ?
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi,
I’m afraid you will need to go through the pre-employment checks and POELT again.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Mr Matthew Clarke posted on
What are the chances of not getting a job within 12 months after passing your ARC?
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Matthew,
I’m afraid we’re not able to advise on this. It all depends on the prison you’ve applied to, the level of competition and how many vacancies the prison has available.
However, HMPPS will always endeavour to place a successful candidate into a role before the 12 months are up.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Natasha posted on
Hi I'm just trying to figure out even though I have passed my ARC and it's at a merit campaign prison will I be offered a place? Looking at this answer hopefully yes I will.
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi Natasha,
As it's a merit campaign I'm afraid we can't guarantee a position but HMPPS endeavour to give job offers within the 12 months of you passing the ARC.
Comment by Natasha posted on
Smashing thank you ?
Comment by Mr Matthew Clarke posted on
That's great, thanks very much for the response, also just another question can not apply for detached service or do you need a allocated prison first?
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi Matthew
When applying to become a prison officer you choose the prison or prisons you wish to apply to first, as opposed to applying to become a prison officer to then be allocated a prison.
I hope that helps,
Emily
Comment by Gair posted on
Hi Emily, please excuse me for using reply on some elses comment but I seem to be experiencing some difficulties finding 'how to post'. Anyway my question is. I start my POET on the 28th January 2019 and luckily it's also at my chosen prison. I have been for my walk around and really enjoyed it, I did ask at the time but can't remember the answer. What do I do about pre-booked holidays?
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Gair,
If you’d like to ask a question which is a standalone rather than replying on someone else’s question, you can scroll to the bottom of the comments section and you’ll see ‘leave a comment’ - this is where you can post your question.
We’ve answered a similar question here about pre-booked holidays - https://prisonjobs.blog.gov.uk/2017/12/13/an-introduction-to-poelt-prison-officer-entry-level-training/#comment-1448
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Mr Matthew Clarke posted on
Great thank you.
Comment by Mark posted on
Hi I'm currently a prison officer at the moment but still in my probation period. If you know another poelt at another prison can you swap with them at anytime.
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi Mark
Thanks for your query. Before we can help, can you please clarify your question? Are you asking if you can swap shifts with another prison officer?
Many thanks,
Emily
Comment by Mark Deighton posted on
Hi.. No I'm asking if a poelt from one establishment can swap with another poelt from another one. Example would be.. If I worked at Leeds and someone else worked at weatherby could we swap prisons if it worked out better for us both. Thanks
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Mark,
Thanks for clarifying your question.
I’m afraid you won’t be able to swap prisons, you’ll need to apply and pass the online tests for that particular prison you’d like to work in and complete or transfer your ARC score. If successful, you’ll then be invited to POELT for this prison.
I hope that’s helpful.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Lacie posted on
hello
I have received a email stating I passed the online tests and that I will need to attend ARC however there is no spaces available at present.
how often are these taken place?
Thanks
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Lacie,
Due to the Christmas and New Year break ARC placements weren’t being offered. Please keep an eye on both your portal and emails as new dates will become available very soon.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Paul W posted on
Hello,
Will my criminal record stop me from becoming a Prison Officer?
As I know the government has signed civil servant jobs up to "Ban the box" system.
I have applied but I have not been asked if I have any criminal convictions.
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Paul,
We’ve answered a similar question here - https://prisonjobs.blog.gov.uk/2018/03/22/prison-officer-vetting-101/#comment-1120
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Rachael posted on
My online has changed to reffered for a decision. What does this mean?.
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Rachael,
We’ve answered a similar question here - https://prisonjobs.blog.gov.uk/2017/12/13/an-introduction-to-poelt-prison-officer-entry-level-training/#comment-1117
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Sam posted on
Hi, still waiting for assement day dates since November. Do you know when they are starting to give dates? Also worried now I’ve been waiting for dates for so long that the job I applied for won’t have any jobs going now 🙁
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi Sam
Thanks for your query. Please rest assured that there are still vacancies in some prisons and all candidates who are still interested in being assessed will be invited as soon as possible. I’m sorry for the delay but we’ve received a lot of applications and can only assess a certain number of candidates each day.
Thanks
Emily
Comment by Carina posted on
Hi, I attended an ARC in mid- December (merit campaign for youth justice worker position) and don't yet know if I have passed the assessment day. When I log in it says 'we are updating your application and will be in touch shortly about the next stage of recruitment'. Just wondering when I would likely find out whether or not I passed or failed? Many thanks.
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi Carina,
Thanks for your query - I'm afraid we don't know your application status but we've answered a similar question here: https://prisonjobs.blog.gov.uk/2018/12/10/top-10-faqs-on-prison-officer-recruitment-you-asked-we-answered/#comment-1518
Please do keep checking back on your portal for an update.
Thanks
Emily
Comment by Colin posted on
Hi I have had my vetting all back completed successfully, I’m awaiting a call or email regarding my poelt training how long am I supposed to wait before I contact them with regards to not hearing anything thanks
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Colin,
Great to hear you passed vetting.
I’ve seen in another question that you’ve been waiting for 5 weeks, please contact the SSCL Recruitment Centre on 0845 241 5358 as they should be able to advise.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Mark posted on
Hi Emily
Please can you tell us how the Arc scoring grade can be measured, as I have recently received an email confirming I passed and giving a score? However, Is the result number provided in the email scored out of 100?
And what is the pass mark score, and the average score for for Arc applicants?
At moment I’m not sure if I just scraped a pass, or did really well.
Many thanks
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi Mark
Each component of the ARC is scored differently, so I'm afraid it's difficult to say. For example, assessments such as the situational judgement tests are scored out of 100, but the fitness tests is a simple pass or fail.
I'm afraid we also don't know what the average score or the pass mark is for the ARC. I think the best thing to do is focus on the fact you've passed and if you have any concerns then please rest assured once you start the job you will be given a mentor who you can ask any questions. You'll also go through thorough Prison Officer Entry Level Training to help fully prepare you for the role.
Congratulations on passing!
Emily
Comment by allana posted on
Hi, Is there anyway we can find out how many vacancies are available at the selected prison we have applied for and when the recruitment will start for that prison, in particularly HMP Lewes?
Thanks
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi Allana
You could phone the prison to find out but generally prison recruitment occurs on a recurring basis so I'm afraid we don't hold that information.
Apologies,
Emily
Comment by Natasha posted on
Hi I passed my ARC in November 2018 and I'm currently on a merit list now for my chosen prisons,hopefully I will hear something soon.
This is my second go at it as the first time I applied in 2017 I failed my vetting due to a conviction not being spent hopefully this time I will pass I just want people to know out there that even with a criminal record still give the service a go as we know people can change and have various qualities to pass on.
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi Natasha
Thanks a lot for your comment! Indeed people with past convictions can still apply as we take applications on a case by case basis. Congratulations on passing and I hope you hear something soon.
Best wishes
Emily
Comment by Natasha posted on
Thank you ?
Comment by Scott posted on
Hello, I passed my arc assessment roughly just over a week ago, there are 3 prisons in the job description that are taking on all on a merit campaign, does this mean that any one of the 3 could contact me should a vacancy become available and my arc score is high enough?,
Thank you.
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi Scott
Yes, that's correct any of those 3 prisons could contact you regarding a vacancy.
Comment by Charlie rabbit posted on
Hello if you fail your probation period and bben let get go can you re apply for the job
Thank you
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi Charlie
It depends on the reasons why a prison officer has failed their probation.
If a person has failed their probation, they can re-apply but their previous service would be looked into at the pre-employment checks (vetting) stage and a decision would be made on a case-by-case basis as to whether they will be re-employed.
However, if a person has been dismissed on disciplinary grounds, they can only be reappointed if HMPPS's CEO authorises it.
If someone has been previously been dismissed based on their health capability, they may be reappointed but only with appropriate Occupational Health advice.
If the person has been dismissed from service under medical retirement provisions, then they cannot be re-employed in any capacity.
I hope that helps,
Emily
Comment by Emma posted on
Hi, I passed my vetti g 2 weeks ago and my status has changed to I will be contacted shortly for next stage. Could you please advise how long this usually takes.
Thank you
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi Emma
Please refer to our blog post on vetting as this will tell you how long the vetting process usually takes: https://prisonjobs.blog.gov.uk/2018/03/22/prison-officer-vetting-101/
Comment by Matthew Clarke posted on
Hello there, I see you have said to some of the question to ring the prisons you applied for? How do you get the numbers of the prisons.
On a merit list but have a bad feeling I will not get in. It's killing me. Lol
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi Matthew
Thanks for your query - you can use the Prison Finder to find the contact details of the prisons you've applied to: https://www.justice.gov.uk/contacts/prison-finder
Thanks
Emily
Comment by Louise posted on
Hi
My online portal says "allocation has now been requested." Does this mean that the pre-employment checks are almost complete? What are the steps following this?
Many Thanks!
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi Louise
I'm afraid I don't have the answer to this but please do keep checking back on your status in the portal and check your emails for further updates.
You'd might also like to refer to our vetting blog post for more information: https://prisonjobs.blog.gov.uk/2018/03/22/prison-officer-vetting-101/
Comment by Steph posted on
Hi ,
I passed my rad day April 2018 and currently still on a merit list. I have since applied for all north west prisons and successfully passed the online tests; meaning I’m also on another merit list. I’m concerned that I only have 2 months left until my 12months to be given a job offer is up... is there any way to find out if the prison is still recruiting etc ?
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi Steph
We are still recruiting in many areas of the country. I'm afraid I'm unable to tell if you'll be offered a position before April, but I can confirm we do recruit people from our merit lists on regular basis.
Thanks,
Emily
Comment by Misi Karizs posted on
Hi.I am passed my online test , And have offered a slot for ARC,which is located in Manchaster.I am a good 3 hours a way from Manchester and the training starts at 8.00am..The earliest I could make it will be 8.30..Would it be a problem for that if I inform the training centre in advance about a late , or 8am start is strict and can t be changed ?
Thank you
Misi
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi Misi
You would have to arrive at 8am - alternatively you can look to rebook your ARC and choose an 11.30am time slot instead.
I hope that helps,
Emily
Comment by Valerie posted on
It seems to me that a lot of us are in the same ‘merit list’ confusion; we don’t know pass marks and are all wondering where we are.
The only way around this is to share our scores and have a little chat together.
I’m unsure whether this is something anyone else would be interested in doing, but if you are, I’ll happily make a private FB group for us all.
Comment by Natasha posted on
I passed my ARC on the 28th November and I'm currently on a merit list for 5 prisons in the north west hopefully all of us will hear something soon but I know from past experience it is a long process and the best thing is patience lol x
Comment by Paul posted on
Hi there,
My Application status in the portal has changed to
"As per our recent conversation, we are delighted to have extended a verbal offer to you.
We look forward to hearing from you with your decision."
However I have not had a phone call from anyone. Does this indicate that vetting has been successful?
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Paul,
Receiving a verbal offer is the next stage in the recruitment process after your pre-employment (vetting) checks.
You should receive a phone call very soon, it takes a maximum of 10 days.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Scott posted on
Hi there,
I’ve revived a conditional offer for the prisons I applied for but It doesn’t specify which one as there were 3 in the job description.
I’ve booked my medical and fitness assessment as there was no facility’s available when I went for my arc assessment. Will I find out which prison the conditional offer is for providing I’ve passed my medical and fitness?.
Thanks
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Scott,
Yes you’re correct, you’ll be told the specific prison once you’ve passed your fitness and medical test as formal offers can’t be given until you’ve completed all elements of the ARC.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Abbie posted on
Hi,
I passed my ARC 2 weeks ago. Anxiously awaiting on the merit list. As far as I know they choose from the merit list based on score, is there a particular score you should have to be chosen or are they random?
I understand it’s a waiting process, not a lot of information I don’t know you can alabarate upon. I’ve applied for HMP drake hall Stafford is the recruitment regular?
Thank you for your time and consideration I hope to hear back from you soon. 🙂
Many thanks
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Abbie,
Great to hear you passed your ARC.
You’re placed on the merit list based on your score you achieve at your ARC - it’s not random. This means the higher you score at the ARC, the higher on the merit list you’ll be so I’m afraid your position is completely dependent on other candidates’ performance, so not something we can provide guidance on.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Mr Matthew Clarke posted on
It says you can apply for other prisons but it if you are willing to work away from home, will they pay expenses and accomodation etc. I am on a merit list and still not being offered a job yet. I have had a list of red prisons but not sure if there is anything I can do to apply?
Thank You
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Matthew,
As you’ll be a Civil Servant you’ll be entitled to the benefits which includes a season ticket loan. This will help to cover your travel expenses however you won’t be able to claim accommodation.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Natasha posted on
So today I received an email saying I'm currently on the merit list for my chosen prisons and they will be in touch as soon as a vacancy comes available.
Does this mean now all the assessments are done and those with a high score from there ARC will be chosen for vetting?
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Natasha,
Yes you’re correct - once all the assessments have finished then vacancies will be allocated to candidates based in order of scores achieved at ARC. Once a job offer has been made and accepted, vetting/pre-employment checks will begin.
Please be aware that assessments finish 8 weeks after the campaign closing date.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by James posted on
I have been on merit list since November I'm really hoping to hear something soon!
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi James,
Please keep an eye on your emails and recruitment portal. As soon as a vacancy becomes available you’ll be contacted.
Thanks, Emily
Comment by Alice posted on
Hi I recently went to the assessment day for prison officer and passed everything except my bleep test I have rebooked for April but was wondering if you still have to pass the bleep test to get a job as operational support grade??
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Alice,
For an Operational Support Grade (OSG) you don’t need to pass a fitness test, so you wouldn’t need to do a bleep test.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Hussain posted on
I passed my test last year and was offered a job in prison but thst time i wasn't able to accept the offer as i mentioned to them that i recently had a car crash and wasn't fit enough to do the job and now when i am ok the offer has been taken away is there anything i can do rather than going through the process again?
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi Hussain,
When did you complete your RAD? Your RAD accreditation is valid for 12 months from the date you completed it so if you're within the 12 months you may be able to apply for a new job (but you'll have to pass your online tests) and transfer your RAD results to your new application. However, if your completed your RAD over 12 months ago then I'm afraid you'll have to start the process again.
Thanks,
Emily
Comment by Hussain posted on
Hi, i passed my RAD in August 2018 so according to what you said it should still be valid, how can i take it forward and transfer my RAD results to my new application.
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Hussain,
We’ve answered a similar question here - https://prisonjobs.blog.gov.uk/2019/02/28/how-to-prepare-for-the-arc-assessment-recruitment-centre/#comment-1656
Thanks, Helena
Comment by James posted on
Hi,
I’ve accepted my formal offer of employment and have a start date. I have been sent a uniform order form which I have to fill in but it doesn’t give me an address to send the completed form too. If you could please help that would be fantastic.
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi James,
The address is usually on the uniform order form along with your start date. Please could you ring the prison you’ve applied to and ask to be put through to the People Hub - they’ll be able to assist you.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Natasha posted on
Good morning so I had a phone call 3 weeks ago to inform me that my chosen prisons are not recruiting anytime soon and Manchester are and would I be interested I have said yes and now waiting for a phone call I've also applied for OSG for the same prison they have told me to go for both could you help me in terms of the process for the OSG please.
Thank you
Natasha
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Natasha,
The main difference is OSG’s don’t attend an Assessment and Recruitment Centre (ARC). You’ll still need to complete the online tests and then if you’re successful you’ll be invited for an interview.
I hope that’s helpful.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Mary Poppers posted on
hello
how long will I wait , I been waiting months
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Mary,
Thank you for your query. To help us with your query better, can you please clarify your question? Are you waiting for your vetting?
If so, vetting takes around 12 weeks to complete. If you’ve been waiting longer than 6 weeks then you can get in touch with the Vetting Contact Point (VCP) at the prison you’ve been allocated to. Please ring the main prison number and ask to be put through to either the VCP or the People Hub.
You can read more information about vetting here - https://prisonjobs.blog.gov.uk/2018/03/22/prison-officer-vetting-101/
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Valerie posted on
Well, it’s coming up to six months since I passed my ARC in Manchester, and still not a peep, (am I the only one who checks just about every day?) patience is definitely becoming a special skill.
Just to try to make it easier to work out where others may be on the list; I scored 61 in my SJT, 20 in maths and the rest were just pass with no other feedback.
Hope that helps everyone.
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Valerie,
We’re very sorry you’re experiencing this. I’m afraid as blog moderators we don’t hold specific information on where applicants are in their recruitment journey. Please could you ring the SSCL Recruitment Centre on 0845 241 5358 as they should be able to help you.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Valerie posted on
Hi Helena,
Thank you for your reply, but I’ve phoned them already, just a waiting game really.
I did think it would be helpful for others to see my score so they can try to position themselves in relation.
Valerie
Comment by Natasha Harrison posted on
Hi yes that's great I had my interview last week is the vetting process the same?
Thank you
Tash
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Natasha,
Yes, the vetting process is the same throughout the prison estate unless you’ve applied to a high security establishment as you’ll then require more checks. You can read more about the vetting process here: https://prisonjobs.blog.gov.uk/2018/03/22/prison-officer-vetting-101/
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Chelsea posted on
Good Evening. This isn’t related to a Prison Officer position, but it is related to an Operational Support Grade position. I’ve recently accepted an offer for an OSG, and I’ve just accepted my offer of employment. I noticed that in my offer, it mentions the need to pass a fitness test (this wasn’t mentioned before and usually is prior to being offered a position.) does an OSG have to pass this also? Thank you in advance for your help!
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Chelsea,
Thanks for getting in touch. No, OSGs do not need to complete a fitness test, so please could you ring SSCL Recruitment Centre on 0845 241 5358 to let them know of this? They should be able to take it from there.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Luke posted on
Hi,
I have read people sayin ARC situational judgement is scored out of 100 however my scorecard was out of 80... is there any reason for this?
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Luke,
Sorry for the delay in getting back to you, I passed your query onto the recruitment team.
Your English and Maths tests, your role plays and your interview are all individually scored out of 80. The fitness and medical test is scored slightly differently as either a pass or fail. At the ARC you won’t need to complete any Situational Judgement Tests.
Your score is also given out as a percentage, so this could be where your result is out of 100.
I hope that’s helpful.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Paul posted on
Hello, my status has changed to 'referred for a decision', now I have looked at the link below and did not find anything section that included a 'referred for a decision' status. So what exactly does that mean, final stages?
https://justicejobs.tal.net/vx/candidate/cms/3.%20Live%20RAD%20Candidate%20Journey
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Paul,
We’ve answered a similar question here: https://prisonjobs.blog.gov.uk/2018/03/22/prison-officer-vetting-101/#comment-457
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Michael Thubron posted on
Hi Helena , I’m on a merit list for Hmp Holme house but it is due to run out May 9th 2019, but I also applied for Hmp Durham aswell but that wasn’t until October 23rd 2018 , i was told by the recruitment team that I am still on that merit list until October 2019 was just wondering if that was true . Thanks Michael.
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Michael,
I’m afraid as blog moderators we don’t hold information on specific applications. However, if you’ve been told you’re on the merit list, it’s true that you can remain on this for up to 12 months. As soon as a vacancy comes up, the recruitment team will be in touch with you regarding next steps.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Tayo posted on
Hi, My vetting process is ongoing for the Prison Officer job (Belmash), I want to know when and how to go about taking my uniform measurements.
Many thanks
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Tayo,
We’ve answered a similar question here: https://prisonjobs.blog.gov.uk/2017/12/13/how-to-prepare-for-the-rad-recruitment-assessment-day/#comment-392
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Laura posted on
Hello, i have applied for a pass campaign but i have been placed on the merit list, the prison vacancy advertisement has been extended and is still a pass vacancy. Any idea when i will hear?
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Laura,
You can remain on the merit list for up to 12 months, as soon as a vacancy comes up you’ll be contacted by the recruitment team.
You can read more about why we may extend a recruitment campaign in the above blog post under question 8.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Jazz posted on
Hi
I passed the online test for prison officer a week ago I got an email today saying final reminder to book arc I’ve already been back on twice and it’s still saying they are fully booked. Does the online test invalidate after a week? Will I have to re do the online test if there is no spaces at arc.? Is there another arc other than Manchester that I could do it at.?!
Also if I fail the maths test at arc how long do I have to wait till I can do it again and will I have to re do the online test again.
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Jazz,
Please could you call the SSCL Recruitment Centre on 0845 241 5358, as they should be able to help you with your query.
If you fail the fitness test you’ll be invited back to try again. If you fail any other element of the ARC, you’ll then need to wait 6 months before reapplying.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Skye posted on
Hi this is in relation to uniform, it states on your website that you will be supplied with uniform before your POELT does that mean I will be given my uniform on the first day at my chosen establishment as I have to attend residential at newbold the following week for 10 weeks ?
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Skye,
Yes, you’re correct, you should receive your uniform on your first day. We’ve answered a similar question here: https://prisonjobs.blog.gov.uk/2017/12/13/an-introduction-to-poelt-prison-officer-entry-level-training/#comment-701
Thanks, Helena
Comment by MIKHAIL posted on
If you get a job at a prison that means you relocating to another city in the UK.
Does the prison service offer any accomodation for officers?
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Mikhail,
I’m afraid accommodation will not be provided. We’ve answered a similar question here: https://prisonjobs.blog.gov.uk/2018/12/10/top-10-faqs-on-prison-officer-recruitment-you-asked-we-answered/#comment-1628
Thanks, Helena
Comment by neil posted on
Hi
I've passed the online tests and I'm waiting to start ARC.
My main concern however is the vetting process. I've had lots of casual temporary jobs over the last 5 years (including periods of unemployment) and I doubt it will be possible to get references for them all. Is it true that references can be checked by HMRC now? It would make my life easier!
Thanks
Neil
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Neil,
Yes, our employment references are done via the HMRC process. The only reason we’d need to contact your existing or previous employers would be if we’re not able to get this information from the HMRC process. You can read more in this blog post: https://prisonjobs.blog.gov.uk/2018/03/22/prison-officer-vetting-101/
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Natasha Harrison posted on
Good afternoon
I received a phone call back in April over positions coming up in Manchester and was told to wait for a call I haven't heard anything yet should I get in touch with sscl or wait?
Thank you
Comment by Emily posted on
Hi, are you currently in vetting or are you on a merit list?
Vetting takes up to 12 weeks to complete. If you have been waiting longer than this, you can phone the SSCL Recruitment Centre on 0845 241 5358.
If you're waiting to hear about a job offer, you can try phoning SSCL.
Thanks
Emily
Comment by Natasha Ann Harrison posted on
Thank you I called and all vacancies have been filled I'm currently on a merit list
Comment by Dan posted on
Hi,
I have passed my ARC on a Pass campaign. I have now been placed on a merit list as there are no available vacancies. This seems to be at odds with the Pass campaign, which states that the next available position will be offered to a candidate rather than merit ARC scoring?
Please can you help clarify things.
Regards,
Dan
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Dan,
Sorry for the delay in getting back to you. A pass campaign still has a merit list although it works slightly differently to a merit campaign. You can read more about the difference in the above blog post under question 7.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Natasha Harrison posted on
Hiya no I'm on a merit list I've rang and all the positions have been filled so I'm back to waiting patiently hopefully my luck will change
Comment by Natasha Harrison posted on
Thank you
Comment by Natasha posted on
So I've accepted a conditional offer my vetting has begun I'm just a bit concerned about my conviction from 2015 and not passing again I'm hoping this time round I will ?
Comment by Andrea, Durham posted on
Hi everyone,
Don't be despondent, i applied in September 2018 on a merit campaign and due to arc being full, i didn't get to do my fitness test until 26th April. I scored 71 out of 80 for judgement tests and 20/20 for maths and english. I was on merit list for just a week before i got my job offer for HMP low newton. I'm now in vetting and have been for 5 weeks.
So i just want to let you know that being on merit list does not hinder your chances of a job offer.
It is a long process but patience really is a virtue 🙂
Comment by Adam Roper posted on
Hi I couldnt take my fitness due to not having the correct shoes, but passed all other tests how do i rebook just the fitness as the centres changing to manchester in a few weeks which is a long distance from me?
Adam
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Adam,
You’ll be invited to re-sit your fitness test via your online portal. If you haven’t received a message, please ring the SSCL Recruitment Centre on 0845 241 5358 as they should be able to help. You may be asked for you National Insurance (NI) number so please have this to hand.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Abby posted on
Good morning,
What’s the difference between getting placed on the merit list and being placed on a pass list?
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Abby,
You can read more about the difference between a merit campaign and a pass campaign in the above blog post under question 7.
Thanks, Helena
Comment by Abby posted on
Good morning,
After the ARC, I have just received an email stating I have been placed on merit list.
Will I be receiving any further information on what marks/grades I got in the assessment?
Thank you.
Comment by Helena posted on
Hi Abby,
Yes, you’ll receive an email with a breakdown of your results very soon.
Thanks, Helena