HM Prison Service Interview Questions
& Process

The interview process was straightforward, involving an exam that tested math and English skills, followed by a fitness test. After these assessments, candidates are informed of their pass/fail status. It generally takes some time to receive an offer from a specific prison, but an offer is typically extended.

The job interview was tough. There were competency-based questions you could prep for, like teamwork scenarios. But they also threw curveballs, asking 'what if' questions like how to handle a violent customer. I got through it but was put on a reserve list for a year. When I followed up to see about starting, they dismissed me and told me to wait. So I waited another six months, checking in so they wouldn't forget me. They eventually told me to find another job since there was no guarantee for the position I spent a month preparing for and interviewed for almost two hours. It's disappointing to pass and then be ignored instead of onboarded, especially when I'm young and trying to build a career.

First, there was an online assessment with maths and English tests. Then, an assessment day which included a fitness test (bleep test), agility and strength tests, a role play, more English and maths tests, and finally an interview.

The interview process included questions about your motivation for becoming a Prison Officer, the qualities you possess and that are required for the role, and your understanding of the job. You were asked for examples of teamwork, how you would cope with the shift pattern, and your self-development efforts. Specific scenarios were explored, such as making a mistake at work, implementing projects despite opposition, supporting others through difficult times, your interest in this specific job, your short and long-term goals, maintaining positivity in negative circumstances, and implementing projects or ideas despite setbacks. You were also asked to describe a time you worked under pressure, including the reasons and your feelings. Probing questions were used to get more information, such as 'What did you do?', 'Why did you do it?', 'How did you resolve the situation?', 'How did you overcome any difficulties?', and 'What did you learn from the experience?'.