Because Second Chances Matter
Prison Education Recruitment Specialists
We place purpose-driven educators in secure, rewarding roles across the UK's prison estate and support you through clearance, training and day one. Teaching in prisons is one of the most impactful careers in education, helping people rebuild their futures through learning.
What Sets Us Apart
What We Do
We specialise in prison education recruitment—connecting purpose-driven educators with roles that genuinely change lives. We help people in prison rebuild their futures through learning.
From Functional Skills to construction trades, from art therapy to curriculum management—we recruit for every aspect of prison education. Whether you're hiring or job-hunting, we're here to help you navigate this unique and rewarding landscape with confidence and care.
Led by Barbara, who spent 26 years working her way from the classroom to Chief Operating Officer of the UK's largest prison education provider, our team knows this sector inside-out. Because education matters—even, and especially, behind the gate.
Why Work With Us
We're not just recruiters—we're your trusted partner in prison education staffing
We Know This Sector Inside-Out
With decades of combined experience in prison education recruitment, we understand the processes, pressures, and the kind of people it takes to thrive behind the gate.
We Make Hiring Easier
Our streamlined vetting and interview support help education providers move quickly and confidently, even when clearance timelines stretch. We manage expectations on both sides.
We Help Candidates Say Yes
Working in a prison isn't for everyone, but when it's right, it's life-changing. We actively educate candidates about the rewards, safety and benefits. No late-night marking, no inbox overflow—clear hours and strong boundaries.
Proactive Talent Pipelines
We don't wait for vacancies to appear—we send relevant candidates in advance so you're never caught short. We know your curriculum, your departments, and your hiring rhythms.
We're With You Every Step
From navigating security clearance to prepping for interviews, we support both clients and candidates from day one. We've even lent laptops for Zoom interviews and helped refresh tired CVs.
We Address Safety Concerns Head-On
Prison education staff are well protected, respected, and trained. You'll have personal radios, panic alarms, key control systems, and dedicated security officers. We'll talk you through it honestly.
Roles We Cover
If it's part of prison education, we recruit for it
Academic Teaching
Functional Skills (English, Maths, ICT), ESOL, Employability, Life Skills, Reading & Literacy Specialists, and Personal Social Development.
Vocational & Construction
Carpentry, Plastering, Painting & Decorating, Tiling, Bricklaying, Plumbing, Motor Mechanics, Multi-Skills, Forklift, Groundwork, CSCS, and trade instructors.
Industries & Facilities
Catering, Cleaning & Facilities Management, Warehousing & Logistics, Laundry Services, and industrial skills training.
Creative & Wellbeing
Art, Music, Barbering, Hairdressing, Beauty Therapy, Sport & Fitness, Horticulture, Peer Mentoring, and creative enrichment roles.
Non-Teaching Support
Information Advice & Guidance (IAG), Learning Facilitators, Library Staff, Admin Support, Induction Coordinators, and classroom assistants.
Leadership & Management
Heads of Education, Deputy Heads, Curriculum Managers, Programme Leads, Education Managers, Activity Managers, Hub Managers, and Lead Tutors.
Hear From Prison Educators
We caught up with educators and ex-offenders who've experienced prison education firsthand. Listen to their stories about transformation, second chances, and the genuine difference teaching in prisons can make.
Natalie – Prison Teacher
"I've had the opportunity to try new things and get involved across the curriculum, which has given me the chance to grow and develop as a teacher. Teaching in a prison is incredibly rewarding."
Femi – Former Student
"It took your mind off where you are in your life. My teachers made me feel like everything was an opportunity, which was a huge benefit. All of this helped me maintain my mental balance by giving me something to focus on in my future."
Colin – Open University Graduate
"These teachers made me feel human again by simply speaking to me like a normal person. The education section was completely different from the main prison—my teachers were able to run the curriculum exactly how they wanted."
Resources & Training
Whether you're considering working in prison education or preparing for your first visit, we've created helpful resources to support you:
Teaching Within a Prison
Explore one of the most rewarding sectors of education and expand your knowledge of prison education. This guide covers teaching styles, career directions, day-to-day duties, and key qualities of prison teachers.
How to Prepare to Visit a Prison
Prepare for your visit with our carefully curated guide, detailing what you can and can't bring into a prison environment, security procedures, and what to expect.
Safety and Prison Security
Gain essential knowledge about the environment, procedures and expectations when entering a prison. Understand the safety measures in place to protect education staff.
Free Certificate in Prison Education
We offer a free introductory training course to anyone considering working within the prison education sector. The course includes an overview of different teaching approaches, career directions, common misconceptions, and key qualities needed.
What Prison Educators Say
Hear from prison teachers and education managers we've worked with
"10/10 I had an excellent experience with Dovetail and Slate, who quickly understood what I was looking for and matched me with the perfect role. I really appreciated the regular updates and clear communication throughout. I felt supported at every step, which made the whole process smooth and stress-free. I would highly recommend Dovetail and Slate to anyone seeking their next career move. I did not have to chase or worry about anything."
Anonymous
"My experience with Dovetail & Slate, specifically Matty and his team, has been nothing but exceptional. They have all really invested in me as the client and ensured they understand our needs. This translates equally to the commitment they show to the candidates they work with, being transparent with them and guiding them through the whole process. Where a candidate has been offered and accepted a role the job doesn't finish there, the team remain engaged with the candidate for time afterwards to see how they are doing and if there are any issues they may need support with. Even when our recruiting needs are fully met, the conversation continues just to keep abreast of things so that they are ready to react when called upon. I decline to work with other recruitment agencies such is my trust in Dovetail & Slate."
Anonymous
"From the first telephone call Mr D. Cordukes, from start to finish conducted a professional service. Always upfront with a vast amount of knowledge and advice. It was a pleasure to work with him and Dovetail & Slate team."
Anonymous
"I wanted to thank David from the bottom of my heart for sending me on the UCB assignment. His call seven weeks ago came as a godsend, as I was looking for work and never knew I was capable of achieving more. If he had not shown faith in me that day, I would never have come out of my shell and would never have had the chance to show my capabilities. I really appreciate his efforts as he went above and beyond looking after me in this short-term assignment. He gave me regular weekly calls to check up on me and is always ready to provide work for me in the future. I have absolutely loved working with Dovetail and Slate and look forward to continuing to do so."
Anonymous
"Dovetail & Slate offers amazing recruitment services. The organisation's prompt response to emails and calls is quite encouraging. It provides detailed and comprehensive information to potential employees or job seekers with excellent professional follow-up guidance. I had different recruiters inviting me for a talk after going through my LinkedIn page and knowing that I am highly experienced, but they would not provide details and clarity about their offers. Clarity and comprehensive details are an essential part of information that should never be ignored. This organisation is good at providing clear and comprehensive information. Also, the polite manner of approach from the organisation's representatives is quite welcoming. I strongly recommend the establishment keeps up with its approach to recruiting job seekers. My experience with the organisation is awesome."
Anonymous
"Paulina was incredibly helpful throughout my job search and documentation process. Her guidance was clear, professional, and always timely, making the entire experience smooth and stress-free. What I appreciated most was her genuine care, attention to detail, and willingness to go the extra mile. Thanks to her support, I successfully secured a job and completed all the necessary steps with confidence. I highly recommend her services!"
Anonymous
Meet Your Prison Education Team
Our experienced team, led by Barbara, understands the unique world of prison education
Senior Recruitment Consultant
Izzy helps organisations across the public and education sectors find the right people to make a real difference.
Addressing Your Concerns
Is it safe?
Yes. Prison education staff are well protected, respected, and trained. You'll have personal radios, panic alarms, key control systems, and dedicated security officers on site. You're valued as an educator and treated with respect by both staff and learners.
Can I work from home?
No—but that's actually a benefit. You'll work your allotted hours and leave work behind when the day ends. No late-night marking, no endless emails taking over your evenings and weekends.
Is the pay competitive?
Absolutely. All education providers operate on similar salary packages, and we ensure you're offered competitive rates aligned with the sector. Your work is valued and fairly compensated.
What about clearance and vetting?
Yes, security clearance takes time—but we'll guide you through every step. We're transparent about timelines and manage expectations on both sides so there are no surprises.
Can I visit before I commit?
Where possible, we arrange familiarisation visits and prep you with our guides on what to bring, banned items, and security procedures.
Vetting & Clearance
Prison education demands rigorous vetting and security clearance. We handle this process efficiently, ensuring every candidate meets HMPPS (His Majesty's Prison and Probation Service) requirements.
All candidates undergo:
- Enhanced DBS checks with barred list checks
- HMPPS Counter-Terrorist Check (CTC) or enhanced security vetting where required
- Identity and right to work verification (IDVT digital checks)
- Professional reference verification
- Qualification verification where required
- Overseas police checks where applicable
We're transparent about timelines (typically 6-12 weeks for security clearance) and keep everyone informed throughout the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Make a Difference?
Teaching in prisons changes lives—including your own. Whether you're hiring or looking for your next role, we're here to help.