Starting the apprenticeship journey within The Prison Service

Exciting News! Didac Expands Apprenticeship Services to His Majesty’s Prison Service

We are thrilled to announce that Didac is strengthening its partnership with His Majesty’s Prison Service by delivering the Wood Product Manufacturing Operative apprenticeship standard! As a long-standing provider of specialised training to the Prison Service, we are now offering apprenticeships to help prison staff acquire valuable skills and qualifications.  For years, Didac has been at the forefront of training woodworking professionals within the Prison Service. We’ve provided Woodworking Machine Training to workshop staff at various establishments across the UK, covering everything from Circular Saws to Spindle Moulders, as well as essential tools like Power Tools and Abrasive Wheels. Our commitment to quality training has extended beyond machinery, as we’ve also supported sites with the Woodwise qualification, enabling some to become Woodwise-approved centres and empowering them to train future learners internally.

Why Apprenticeships?
Building on our extensive experience with the Prison Service, we now offer the Wood Product Manufacturing Operative Standard to prison establishments across the UK. This apprenticeship is a fantastic opportunity for both staff and learners to gain a recognised qualification while mastering new skills in a practical environment.

Where Is This Happening?
We are already working with a number of prisons, including HMP Leyhill, HMP Warren Hill, and HMP Dartmoor, to start this new phase of collaboration. The program is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to excel in the industry.

How Does the Apprenticeship Work?
Our 15-month apprenticeship program is structured to combine practical learning with theoretical knowledge. Apprentices will receive comprehensive support from our highly skilled trainers, who bring a wealth of industry experience and educational expertise. Throughout the program, apprentices will attend sessions at Didac’s academy, where they’ll train on a range of woodworking machinery, preparing them for the demands of the workplace. This blend of hands-on practice and guided learning ensures apprentices develop the confidence and competence to thrive in their roles.

Why This Matters for the Prison Service
This apprenticeship program represents a significant step forward in enhancing vocational skills for the Prison Service.  By investing in staff development, prisons can build a highly trained workforce while providing individuals with the tools to contribute meaningfully, whether within the prison system or beyond.

What’s Next?
We are proud to have launched the first group of apprentices, and the feedback so far has been positive. We are confident that, with our guidance, these apprentices will achieve exceptional results and make a lasting impact on the industry.

As the partnership evolves, we look forward to working closely with more prison establishments across the UK, expanding the reach and benefits of this apprenticeship program.