NSW strives to improve inmate literacy and numeracy
May 24, 2017. The number of inmates completing literacy and numeracy programs will double under a new education model being introduced to the state’s correctional system.
It will help reduce reoffending by targeting core education and training needs and improving employment prospects for when inmates leave prison.
Minister for Corrections David Elliott today announced BSI Learning had won the contract to deliver the majority of the education and training in prisons. The registered training organisation was appointed following a rigorous tender process and has more than 16 years of experience in working with offenders in Queensland Corrective Services.
“BSI Learning is registered with the Australian Skills Quality Authority and must meet the same regulatory standards as other well-known providers, including around course content and the qualifications and experience of staff,” Mr Elliott said. “Corrective Services NSW (CSNSW) and the new provider will be accountable for delivering on the commitment to more than double the number of inmates completing literacy and numeracy programs.”
Under the new model, courses will be delivered more consistently across the year.
“In partnership, CSNSW will also increase the number of inmates participating in education and training by 20 per cent, making offenders job-ready upon release, more equipped to integrate into society and less likely to reoffend,” Mr Elliott said.
BSI Learning have been delivering programs in the correctional services sector since 2000, including inmate education and training since 2008.
“Over the past 10 years, BSI Learning enrolled 11,637 students and issued 10,059 qualifications or statements of attainment ”“ meaning 89 per cent of our correctional centre students successfully completing units of competency,” BSI Learning General Manager Kala Philip said.
Many of CSNSW’s existing education staff filled new roles assessing how inmates training needs are delivered, which has already resulted in a substantial increase in the number of inmates being assessed since January.
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