Question to the Ministry of Justice:

To ask the Secretary of State for Justice, whether he plans to reintroduce the prison officer apprenticeship.

The Government recognises the value of apprenticeships in supporting the development and progression of prison officers.

The previous Custody and Detention Apprenticeship closed in August 2025 following a review of its operational sustainability and delivery arrangements.

There are currently no plans to reintroduce the apprenticeship in its previous form. HMPPS is introducing a new foundation learning programme for prison officers from April 2027, and the Ministry of Justice is undertaking a wider procurement of apprenticeship provision.

The Department remains supportive of apprenticeship opportunities for prison officers and will consider how these might support future development and progression, taking account of operational requirements, the implementation and evaluation of the new foundation learning programme, and opportunities available through wider apprenticeship provision.