QCS has partnered with Griffith University to develop an innovative training curriculum, positioning the organisation as an international leader in evidence-based corrections.
The new curriculum will fulfil key recommendations of the Queensland Parole System Review (QPSR) to review and implement training for Community Corrections officers, investing in reforms to Queensland’s correctional system.
QPSR program lead, Deputy Commissioner Community Corrections and Specialist Operations, Paul Stewart said the partnership would ensure QCS officers were well equipped to undertake their critical role in crime prevention and ensuring community safety.
“This curriculum is an investment in our exceptional and dedicated workforce, who work with the most difficult and challenging members of society every day to keep our community safe.
“Griffith University is recognised as a world leader in the criminology field and has the largest community of criminologists in Australia, including many of our own officers.
“The university will work alongside the Community Corrections Training team at the QCS Academy, whose role is to encourage superior community corrections practices that enhance public safety and prevent reoffending,” Deputy Commissioner Stewart said.
The project will support the effective case management of offenders through a new evidenced based practice curriculum, including structured on-the-job training, specialised education for specific roles, and professional development.
Although the project is focused on Community Corrections, many of the developed training modules will benefit officers across the agency.
Griffith’s Dr Lacey Schaefer said the partnership was an exciting opportunity for Community Corrections officers.
“The training packages being developed adhere to evidence-based best practices in corrections, bringing officers the knowledge and skills they will require to be advanced practitioners,” Dr Schaefer said.
“The professional development opportunities this brings for officers will have important consequences for their wellbeing and performance, with subsequent benefits for corrections clients and their communities.
“Griffith University is excited to be partnering with QCS on this impactful project.”
Deputy Commissioner Stewart said the announcement accompanies the recruitment of additional senior training officers to support the project’s delivery and ongoing officer training.
“We are looking for senior training officers to help shape the future of QCS as a world leader in corrections at the forefront of best practice,” Deputy Commissioner Stewart said.
The new Community Corrections training curriculum is expected to commence roll-out in 2021, but the new training team will be the first to undertake part of the course.
“This is an exciting opportunity, and in support of the project, the successful applicants will be the first officers to receive four weeks of professional development on the new curriculum by Griffith University,” Deputy Commissioner Stewart said.
