The Brush Farm Corrective Services Academy, which provides training and education to the State’s prison and parole officers, is celebrating its 30th anniversary of operation.
The facility in Eastwood, Sydney opened in 1990 to improve the recruitment and training of Correctional Officers, and has seen close to 12,000 recruits go through its doors.
Commissioner of Corrective Services NSW, Peter Severin said Brush Farm attracted international attendees and was recognised as a world-class Academy.
“Rehabilitating and interacting with offenders is not for everyone, however correctional staff play a vital role in the justice system, so we must ensure they have the best possible support and development,” Mr Severin said.
“Brush Farm Academy provides the world’s finest operational correctional training – both theory and scenario-based – where officers can gain nationally-recognised qualifications,” he said.
“Over the years we’ve welcomed people from all backgrounds and ages, helping to build our diverse workforce.”
Mr Severin said new Correctional Officer recruits participated in 10 weeks of training in areas including legislation, inmate management, security, weapons and officer survival skills.
“This is followed by nine months of on-the-job training and ongoing development and mentoring, on completion, they receive a Certificate III in Correctional Practice,” he said.
Director of Brush Farm Academy, Josh Sampson said Academy training staff made a valuable contribution to the development of the organisation and its culture.
“Our experienced trainers, who themselves are officers, share their expertise and innovation to guide our new recruits and educate existing staff to advance their skills and qualifications,” Mr Sampson said.
