Addressing neurodiversity
Another innovative aspect of HMP Hollesley Bay’s offerings is the inclusion of Gateway Qualification’s’ neurodiverse units in their peer mentoring courses. Catering to conditions like Asperger’s, ADHD, and dyslexia, these units empower inmate classroom assistants, called ‘orderlies’, to become effective peer mentors. This initiative enhances the learning environment and fosters an inclusive community where learners’ needs are acknowledged and catered to.
Challenges on the path
The journey, however, is not without its challenges. Even with innovative solutions, the lack of internet access poses a significant barrier, limiting the scope of further digital education. And there’s a common resistance to learning among the prison’s inmates, often rooted in past negative educational experiences, inability to read and write, or a deep-seated fear of looking foolish.
Flexibility: The key to effective learning
One of the strengths of working with Gateway Qualifications lies in their flexibility. The qualifications allow adjustments to suit individual needs and circumstances, making learning more accessible and relevant to inmates. This flexibility has been crucial in delivering courses like employability and progression, where prisons like HMP Hollesley can choose from different units, tailor-made to their prisoners’ journeys towards rehabilitation.
