Prison Education Reduces Reoffending: The Impact of Higher Education

New Ministry of Justice analysis has confirmed the powerful role that prison education plays in reducing reoffending, with Open University study shown to significantly improve outcomes for people in custody. 

The research demonstrates that individuals who engage in higher education while in prison are less likely to reoffend after release. For education providers like Novus, these findings reinforce the importance of offering high-quality learning opportunities across the full spectrum of ability, from entry-level skills to degree-level study.

Ministry of Justice research: education that makes a difference

The Ministry of Justice analysis focused on prison learners studying with The Open University and found a clear reduction in reoffending rates among those who completed higher education courses.

Beyond reduced reoffending, the research highlighted wider benefits of prison education, including increased confidence, stronger problem-solving skills, and improved motivation. These outcomes support successful resettlement, employability, and long-term engagement with learning.

For Novus, this evidence reflects the impact we see daily in prison education settings, where learning supports rehabilitation and creates meaningful opportunities for change.

Supporting prison learners at every level

Many people in prison enter education with low levels of English and maths, often linked to disrupted schooling or negative previous experiences of learning. Novus plays a vital role in supporting these learners to build confidence, develop essential skills, and re-engage with education in a positive way.

At the same time, prison education must also meet the needs of learners with more advanced educational ambitions. Novus supports individuals who are ready to progress beyond functional skills, including those studying GCSEs, A levels, and higher education courses with The Open University.

By offering a broad and inclusive curriculum, Novus ensures that every learner, regardless of starting point, can access the level of education that matches their ability, aspirations, and potential.

For more about how distance learning supports progress in custody, see our article on the benefits of distance learning in prison.

A Novus case study: achieving a degree in custody

One Novus learner’s journey highlights the life-changing impact of higher education in prison.

After six years of study across two different prisons, the learner achieved a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Social Sciences (Sociology) with The Open University, graduating with a 2.1 classification in Summer 2025.

Completing a degree in custody requires exceptional resilience and commitment. Throughout his studies, the learner received support from Novus education teams, Open University tutors, and partner organisations, helping him to stay focused despite the challenges of prison life and transfer between establishments.

Celebrating success: prison graduation at HMP Thorn Cross

The learner’s achievement was celebrated at a prison graduation ceremony held at HMP Thorn Cross in January.

The event was attended by loved ones, Open University managers, AA sponsors, and education staff from both prisons that the learner attended. The ceremony provided an opportunity to recognise not only academic success, but also the perseverance and personal growth behind it.

The atmosphere was emotional and positive, with meaningful speeches and shared celebration. Events like this underline the importance of recognising achievement in prison education and the powerful message it sends to learners and their families.

Why prison education matters

The Ministry of Justice findings provide strong evidence that education is one of the most effective interventions for reducing reoffending and supporting safer communities.

By supporting learners with both foundational and advanced educational needs, Novus helps people in prison build skills, confidence, and qualifications that support long-term change.

Through partnerships with The Open University and prison colleagues, Novus continues to deliver education that transforms lives, strengthens rehabilitation, and creates better outcomes for individuals and society.