A Better Future: Education and Learning in Prison

Carole Petchell’s Victorian Skills Authority Fellowship explores how education in prisons can better support rehabilitation, employment and future opportunities for incarcerated people. Through research and site visits across prisons in England and Scotland, the report examines innovative education models, including prison-based apprenticeships and holistic learning approaches. It highlights the barriers faced by incarcerated learners in Victoria and identifies opportunities to strengthen pathways into skilled employment after release. By comparing international practices with the Victorian system, the report proposes practical considerations for improving prison education and expanding access to vocational training, ultimately supporting better outcomes for individuals, communities and the workforce.