Novus Staff at HMP Rye Hill receive Tom Shannon Award for Outstanding Literacy Support

We are proud to announce that Olivia Pountney, Learning and Support Worker, and Michael Pawluk, Student Support Worker at HMP Rye Hill, have been selected as winners of the Tom Shannon Award. This recognition celebrates their outstanding contribution to prison education, particularly in literacy and numeracy learning, and their exceptional support for volunteer facilitator Julian Eccles.

Their work has had a significant impact on literacy support, peer mentoring, and learner engagement across the establishment, strengthening the delivery of key education programmes including Turning Pages and Count Me In.

Exceptional Contribution to Prison Education and Literacy Learning

Olivia and Michael have consistently demonstrated dedication, professionalism, and compassion in their roles within Novus at HMP Rye Hill. Their commitment to improving literacy and numeracy outcomes has directly enhanced the quality of education delivery and learner experience.

Despite the demands of their primary responsibilities, they regularly make time to support volunteer facilitator Julian Eccles during each visit to site. Their proactive approach ensures that he is fully supported to deliver structured and effective learning sessions, helping learners build confidence and essential skills.

Through clear communication, careful coordination, and a willingness to adapt processes where needed, Olivia and Michael ensure that volunteers have the access, guidance, and information required to carry out their roles effectively.

Strengthening Volunteer and Peer Mentor Support

A key part of their impact has been the support they provide to peer mentors and volunteers within HMP Rye Hill. Olivia and Michael have created a positive and structured environment where mentors feel confident to reflect on learner progress, share challenges, and develop their own practice.

By actively championing the role of peer mentors on the wings, they have helped strengthen peer-led learning and improved engagement with literacy and numeracy programmes. This supportive approach has enabled mentors to build stronger relationships with learners and contribute more effectively to learning outcomes.

Their work has also ensured that mentors feel valued and included as part of the wider education team, increasing motivation and confidence across the peer mentoring network.

Improving Learner Experience and Outcomes

The impact of Olivia and Michael’s work is most clearly seen in the experience of learners. Their consistent encouragement, respect, and belief in the value of education have helped create a safe and supportive learning environment.

Learners benefit from improved access to literacy and numeracy support, as well as more consistent guidance throughout their learning journey. This has contributed to increased engagement, improved confidence, and stronger progression into further learning opportunities.

Their approach reflects the core values of prison education: inclusion, opportunity, and rehabilitation through learning.

A Lasting Impact at HMP Rye Hill

The contribution of Olivia and Michael extends across volunteers, peer mentors, and learners alike. Their ability to build trust, maintain strong working relationships, and support consistent programme delivery has strengthened the overall education offer at HMP Rye Hill.

Their recognition with the Tom Shannon Award is a reflection of their sustained commitment to improving literacy learning and supporting others to succeed.

Celebrating Excellence in Novus Education

Olivia Pountney and Michael Pawluk exemplify the values at the heart of Novus: partnership, respect, and a belief in the transformative power of education.

Their work continues to make a meaningful difference to learners, mentors, and volunteers, helping to build a stronger, more inclusive learning culture at HMP Rye Hill.

We'd like to congratulate them both on this well-deserved recognition and thanks them for their outstanding contribution to prison education.