Custody and detention professional
Level 3 · AdvancedProtective services 1 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
The Custody and Detention Professional apprenticeship trains you to work in prisons, immigration removal centres, or police custody suites, managing the welfare, safety, and security of those in detention. You will develop skills in risk assessment, conflict management, rehabilitation support, and emergency response within a highly regulated environment. This Level 3 qualification leads to careers as a prison officer, immigration detention officer, or custody detention officer.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Legal frameworks governing detention, custody, and the rights of detainees
Dynamic security, intelligence gathering, and threat recognition
Conflict resolution, de-escalation, and use-of-force principles
Mental health awareness, substance misuse, and vulnerability identification
Safeguarding, self-harm prevention, and suicide risk management
Rehabilitation approaches and supporting reintegration into the community
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Conduct cell and area searches to prevent contraband and maintain security
Supervise detainees during movement, meals, exercise, and activities
Carry out risk assessments and welfare checks for vulnerable individuals
De-escalate tense situations and apply approved restraint when necessary
Complete detailed reports and maintain accurate custodial records
Support resettlement and rehabilitation programmes for those in custody
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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