Prison Officer career guide
Prison officers supervise prisoners, maintain safety and security, and support rehabilitation to help reduce reoffending.
Career guide reviewed by Certyz · October 2026
Entry routes vary by employer and role. Compare the options below before deciding what to research next.
What does a Prison Officer do?
Prison officers supervise prisoners, maintain safety and security, and support rehabilitation to help reduce reoffending.
- Prisons
- Secure units
- Custodial environments
- HM Prison and Probation Service
- Private prison operators
How to become a Prison Officer
Most prison officers join directly through recruitment and receive extensive professional training while employed.
No specific qualification is required. New officers complete the Prison Officer Entry Level Training (POELT) programme.
- Direct employment or training
- Apprenticeship
Skills and progression for Prison Officer
- Communication
- Conflict management
- Resilience
- Teamwork
- Decision making
- Supervising Officer
- Custodial Manager
- Head of Function
- Deputy Governor
- Prison Governor
Check current entry requirements before deciding
This Certyz guide is a starting point. Qualifications, registration rules and apprenticeship availability can change. Confirm the latest requirements with employers, course providers, relevant professional bodies and official careers guidance.
What could the outlook mean for you?
Career opportunities can look different depending on where you live, your preferred route and the subjects and activities you enjoy. Your report brings those factors together rather than giving you a generic answer.
- Regional vacancy and salary intelligence
- Your personal career-match reasoning
- Opportunity strength and market direction
- Alternative careers worth considering