The workshop beckons: they’ve done the theory, so as soon their security
classifications improve the prisoners who’ve received their National Certificate
in Mechanical Engineering can look forward to doing practical work.
Prisoners were formally recognised for their studies in engineering at a ceremony held at Christchurch Men’s Prison on September 27.
Chief Executive Barry Matthews presented 17 prisoners from the Matapuna Unit with certificates of achievement for completing the Christchurch Polytechnic Institute of Technology engineering course.
Southern Engineering Manager Bruce Hartley says for most of the prisoners, it is the first time they have received any formal qualification.
“The prisoners are extremely proud of their achievements and thrilled to be formally recognised, especially in front of their teachers and invited family members.”
“The tutors who delivered the course said the prisoners could teach some of their other students about dedication and commitment, and aiming to achieve good results.”
The course ran from June 25 to September 21 and was completed by 19 prisoners in total. The course gave prisoners core unit standards in the theoretical applications of the National Certificate in Mechanical Engineering (NCME) Level 2.
“Prisoners wishing to achieve the national certificate must complete the practical applications which can be achieved working within the prison-based engineering workshop, when the opportunity becomes available to them,” Bruce says.
As part of the Prisoner Employment Growth Plan, engineering training to NCME level 2 will be offered at Christchurch Men’s Prison to prisoners with high security classifications in the near future.
“The aim is to provide high security prisoners with employment training which, as their security classification lowers, could lead to opportunities for them to work in the prison engineering workshops or on the Release to Work programme, “ Bruce says.
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ISSN 1178-8453