PO21

A Comprehensive Approach to Sectorial Skills Development

Across Europe, there are many challenges related to the training and education of prison officers. Prison staff often lack adequate initial and continuing training and there are significant differences in training policies and practices, from recruitment and selection, to initial training, to learning outcomes, to qualifications and the duration of the training.

These disparities between jurisdictions can inhibit professional development and mobility, across the EU, and prevent the implementation of framework decisions on the application of the principle of mutual recognition of decisions in criminal matters.

Developed by sectoral representatives (prison administrations, trade unions, VET and research organisations, and representatives of correctional private and public sector members), the PO21_  European Prison Officers for the 21st Century project was created  with the assumption that the current Prison Officers’ training should be updated in order to prepare these professionals for the present and future challenges they have to face.

Thus, to respond to this gap, the Project proposed the development of a strategic approach to sectorial skills development; the identification of existing and emerging skills needs; the strengthening of the exchange of knowledge and practice; the promotion of relevant qualifications and support their recognition; the adaptation of Vocational Education and Training to skills needs; the promotion of qualification standards for work-based learning with a particular focus on digital skills as they are increasingly important to PO.

The PO21 project developed: