Oaklands College is proud to share the positive impact of its growing partnership with HMP The Mount, where our Skills Bootcamps programme is supporting rehabilitation and improving employment outcomes for learners preparing for release.

Now approaching its first anniversary, the programme began with Skills Bootcamps in Rail and Construction. Through these pathways, 58 learners have gained industry-recognised qualifications, and over half (53%) have entered employment in the sector following release. This reflects the strength of employer-led learning in supporting both rehabilitation and long-term employability.

Expanding Training Pathways

Following the success of the initial phase, Oaklands College has expanded its offer at HMP The Mount to include four specialist pathways:

• Rail and Construction
• Land Management
• Traffic Management
• IT and Technology Recycling Management

All programmes have been developed in collaboration with industry partners to ensure training is aligned with real job opportunities. Learners receive high-quality technical training, industry insight, and preparation for workplace expectations. Every participant is also guaranteed a job interview upon completion, with additional employment support from Oaklands College upon release.

A Growing Commitment to Rehabilitation Through Skills

Recognising the programme’s strong outcomes, Oaklands College has committed that 35% of its overall Skills Bootcamp delivery for the current financial year will take place within HMP The Mount. This expansion means we are on track to support over 150 individuals in custody, helping to equip them with the skills, confidence, and connections they need to progress into meaningful careers.

Why This Work Matters

Reoffending remains a significant challenge in the UK, with 39.3% of prison leavers reoffending within 12 months. Evidence consistently shows that prison education plays a vital role in reducing reoffending, with people who engage in learning while in custody being significantly less likely to reoffend.

Employment, in particular, is a key factor in successful rehabilitation. Ministry of Justice research shows that people who gain work soon after release are far less likely to reoffend — 17%, compared with 35% of those not in work.

Delivering Impact Through Collaboration

The partnership between Oaklands College, employers, and HMP The Mount demonstrates how collaborative approaches can deliver real results for individuals and society. By creating pathways into sustainable employment, we are helping learners rebuild their lives, contribute to their communities, and reduce the cycle of reoffending.

Oaklands College welcomes opportunities to share insight from this work and engage with organisations interested in supporting our employability and skills programmes.