From Pub to Prison: A Transformative Journey into Teaching

A New Beginning at HMP Northumberland

The first time I walked into HMP Northumberland, I was apprehensive. Like most people, I’d never set foot in a prison before, and I had no idea what to expect from the prisoners I was there to teach.

After over two decades in hospitality, I found myself at a crossroads, seeking a new purpose in life. My journey began when I spotted an advertisement for teaching positions at the prison in 2007. This opportunity seemed like a perfect fit, allowing me to make a difference in people’s lives while achieving my own goals.

Transitioning from Hospitality to Education

Having grown up in the hospitality industry, I managed pubs and hotels, even running my own pub for a decade. However, I was ready for something completely different. I didn’t have any teaching qualifications, but my experience in NVQ training with staff and college students ignited my passion for supporting others’ development. Teaching at HMP Northumberland allowed me to focus on this purpose.

Making a Difference in Prison Education

In prisons, those with practical skills and industry experience are highly sought after for teaching roles. I aimed to share my catering knowledge to help prepare prisoners for jobs upon their release. The structured environment of the prison education system provided a supportive framework for both teachers and learners.

Every prisoner who engages in education chooses to do so, which means our role is to empower them by identifying their long-term goals and developing relevant skills for the workplace.

Personal Engagement and Growth

Teaching modules such as food safety and engaging industry contacts for further training, I noticed how motivated the learners were to succeed. Despite some having complex needs, the small class sizes allowed me to connect with them personally, leading to visible growth in their self-esteem.

We offer NVQs at level 2 across various subjects, from hospitality to IT, emphasizing not just qualifications but essential workplace qualities like teamwork, communication, and respect.

A Rewarding Career Path

Throughout my career at HMP Northumberland, I have taken on various roles, including training NVQ trainers and eventually becoming an education manager overseeing approximately 40 staff members. The opportunities for advancement in prison teaching are diverse and fulfilling.

Unique Learning Experiences

Our teaching methods are varied; we recently invited astronomers from Kielder Observatory to inspire our learners, leading to a profound poetry anthology project.

Reflecting on my journey since that 2007 advertisement, I am grateful for the new sense of purpose and fulfillment I found in prison education.

Search for prison teaching careers here.