Unlocked is a unique two-year leadership development programme aimed at attracting a different kind of leader to work in prisons and focus on rehabilitation and reducing re-offending. Applicants who are placed will develop as an inspirational leader, capable of changing behaviour and supporting prisoners to make positive choices. Applicants will also acquire skills and experiences that transfer to other employment and leadership settings, and gain a fully funded master’s degree in Leadership and Custodial Environments; alongside working as prison officers in London, Manchester and the South East.

After a two-year programme, graduates can choose to stay within the prison and rehabilitation system, leading institutional change from within, or accept other career opportunities where their skills and experiences will be valued. They will be part of a network of informed advocates for change, influencing perceptions of prisoners and supporting the creation of further opportunities for them to reintegrate with society.