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Experiencing life at Ashfield
Ashfield Young Offenders’ Institution is the only and largest privately managed establishment for 15-18 year olds in England. Opened in 1999, capacity has since doubled to 400 young people and it is now an award-winning example of best practice, with over 5,500 accredited qualifications awarded to boys in 2008 compared with 554 in 2003. Ashfield’s success has been recognised by a number of awards including Anne Frank Educator of the Year (2009), Butler Trust Awards (2009), Criminal Justice awards for mentors and volunteers (2008/2009), the Healthy Schools Award (2008) and CBI Human Capital Awards (2007).
On arrival, boys are assigned to a personal officer, who provides support during their stay. They are also introduced to the ‘Rewards and Sanctions’programme, which helps them understand what is expected of them. Privileges can be earned by good behaviour.
Developing self-confidence
To help the boys develop self-confidence and achieve their potential, Ashfield College offers a range of different courses including art, maths, construction, music, plumbing, painting and decorating and mechanic skills. All of the courses allow individuals to work towards a qualification, which can lead to further study or job opportunities. Contact with families and friends is greatly encouraged, while art sessions help the boys to explore the importance of relationships.
To stay fit and healthy, the boys also take part in a range of sporting activities, such as cricket, rugby and weight training and can join ‘enrichment courses’, including the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme, the Prince’s Trust football team, cookery and the DVD club.Weekly sessions in the library are also timetabled and, when their release date approaches, boys are helped to prepare for life outside.
Skills and training for the future
The golden thread to Ashfield's work is the emphasis on resettlement. The college has built links with a number of local employers including Avon & Somerset Fire & Rescue and Wessex Water to help young people improve their chances of employment after release. Ex-Ashfield resident Jack is now working for S&B Training. He is training to be a mechanic. He says, "Myself and my parents are over the moon that I have been offered an apprenticeship. My future is positive and exciting."