The Corrections Officer Development Pathway (CODP) is the initial training for new Corrections Officers and Offender Employment Instructors. The pathway starts with an induction week at your site, five weeks at our National Learning Centre in Upper Hutt and continues for a period of 12 months back at your prison site. The CODP includes classroom-based learning, self-led learning, practice in simulated environments and on-the-job learning.
There are four phases of the CODP programme:
Phase 1: One week
An induction week will take place at your home site. This allows you to familiarise yourself with your work environment and meet your team. This comprehensive induction will also cover safety and security, role and expectations of a Corrections Officer, access to systems, and your uniform. It’s likely there will be other new starters with you, so you won’t be on your own.
Phase 2: Five weeks
Ara Tika for Corrections Officers is a two-day induction programme designed to give new staff an understanding of what Corrections does and how they play their part in reducing re-offending. You will join with other new staff from around the country beginning their careers with Corrections in a range of frontline roles. This programme is conducted at the National Learning Centre in Upper Hutt, Wellington.
New Corrections Officers continue their learning for a full five weeks at the National Learning Centre. This learning is focused on custodial practice, safety, and security. You will undertake a series of scenario-based assessments to assess your ability to perform the required practice areas effectively and your level of confidence in doing the job well. You will complete learning focused on managing prisoners and supporting their rehabilitation. Learners will also complete tactical options and control and restraint techniques.
Corrections will arrange and pay for travel, accommodation and food for any training that requires staff to be away from home.
Phase 3: Four weeks
You will be assisted by a learning buddy, practice leader or experienced staff from your unit, to carry out duties at your prison site. This phase continues for four weeks until you are signed off as competent to apply what you have learnt at the National Learning Centre. You will formally graduate as a Corrections Officer if you have completed your 10 weeks successfully.
Phase 4: Remaining 12 months
Over the remainder of the pathway, new Corrections Officers gain work experience that will enable them to complete the National Certificate level 3 for Offender Management.
We'll supply the dates for each phase in your offer letter, to allow you to plan ahead.