Twenty-five new correctional officers have joined the ranks after graduating from nine weeks of intensive training at Cessnock Correctional Complex on Friday.
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Twenty correctional officers and five overseers were sworn in at the ceremony, the first group to graduate from the regional training program at the Cessnock centre.
Most of the trainees are local to Cessnock and surrounding areas and completed training in key legislation, policies and procedures, simulated search and emergency response exercises and weapons training over the nine weeks.
The trainees will now commence employment at Cessnock, St Heliers and Tamworth correctional centres as well as various court locations.
Corrective Services NSW Commissioner Peter Severin said it is an advantage for the recruits to have been able to participate in the program close to home, and commends the trainers for the success of the trainees.
“We are pleased that training was provided close to home,” Commissioner Severin said.
“It’s been a great opportunity to draw on the expertise of local staff.
“The trainers have prepared the 25 officers well in working in all sections of the prison.”
Graduate Emma Crowe was chosen for the class award for her performance, attitude and professionalism amongst a strong group of recruits.
“She’s a real team player in a very good class,” learning and development officer Jeremy Leach said.
“They were all very willing and keen to learn.
“They’ll be a very good asset to Corrective Services NSW.”
Ms. Crowe said it was a fantastic program with a group that really bonded through the experience, and received great instruction from the trainers.
Ms. Crowe said the recruits had a few jokes about who would be best in class with her name popping up a couple of times, and that she was proud to have been awarded the honour.
“It’s a big achievement knowing my peers think that as well as my trainers,” she said.
Custodial corrections director Glen Scholes said he is confident in the recruits’ abilities to fulfil the requirements of the job.
“These accomplished professionals have been trained to do one of the most demanding jobs in NSW,” he said.
“Each graduate has been expertly trained to deal with any situation that may arise.
“I look forward to seeing these graduates go on to be the men and women who make up the frontline of Corrective Services NSW.”
The next intake of trainees will start at Cessnock on Monday.
