The Department of Correctional Services’ Carl Rattray Staff College has added 13 new instructors to its roster following the completion of the Potential Instructors’ Training which culminated in a Passing Out Ceremony at the institution this morning.

The previously appointed Correctional Officers are required to serve a minimum of five years to be considered for the course to become Custodial Training Instructors. The Instructors will train newly recruited Correctional Officers.

Commissioner of Corrections, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Gary Rowe, who delivered the keynote address, commended the new graduates on their accomplishments.

Commissioner Rowe stated “Graduands despite some hard tasks, stress, highs and lows that you have encountered during your studies in the college. At the end of it all, you completed this part of the journey which is a great achievement.”

Commissioner Rowe added “I acknowledge your brilliant achievements in this academic course. I thank you for the uncommon zeal you have demonstrated towards your studies. You have survived the course and we look forward to your contribution to the advancement of DCS in excellence. You have demonstrated that you can all achieve excellence, therefore, you have left a good legacy behind for the incoming students to follow.”

Lt. Col. (Ret’d) Gary Rowe charged the graduates to see themselves as ambassadors for the college, never allow selfish interest to blemish their integrity and be optimistic individuals.

The 4-week programme was designed to empower potential instructors with a broad understanding and knowledge of the history, structure, roles and functions of the various elements within the Department of Correctional Services. The programme enhanced the Officers’ capacity to deliver technical training, exposed the instructors to teaching methodologies that will enable them to communicate effectively in their subject areas and promoted best practices in leadership and mentoring skills whilst performing supervisory functions.

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