HMIP Report Praises Education at HMP & YOI Low Newton

We are proud to share fantastic news from HMP & YOI Low Newton following the publication of the latest inspection by HM Inspectorate of Prisons.

The HMIP report highlights the strength of education, skills and work across the prison, with the provision receiving a good rating from Ofsted. This is a significant achievement for prison education at Low Newton and a proud moment for Novus colleagues delivering learning and skills on site.

Ofsted Judges Education, Skills and Work as Good

Inspectors were clear in their findings. The report confirmed:

Ofsted judged education, skills and work to be good.

This endorsement demonstrates that the education and skills provision at Low Newton is well planned, effectively delivered and making a meaningful difference to women in custody.

The positive judgement from Ofsted reflects the quality of teaching, the relevance of the curriculum and the progress learners are making.

A Broad and Meaningful Prison Education Curriculum

The HMIP report recognises a broad education and training offer that supports women to gain qualifications, develop employability skills and build confidence.

At Low Newton, the curriculum includes:

• English and maths functional skills
• Vocational and accredited programmes
• Skills development aligned to employment pathways
• Support for learners with additional needs

For many women, custody can be the first time they have experienced consistent, positive engagement with education. Creating a supportive and aspirational learning environment is central to the Novus approach, helping learners re-engage, achieve and plan for the future.

Prison education is about far more than qualifications. It is about building self belief, resilience and ambition. The latest HMIP inspection shows that this approach is having a tangible impact.

Collaboration Driving Success

Delivering high quality education in a custodial environment relies on strong partnership working. The success highlighted in the HMIP report reflects the close collaboration between Novus education teams and prison colleagues at Low Newton.

Together, staff prioritise purposeful activity, encourage participation in learning and ensure that women are supported to overcome barriers to engagement. This joined up approach creates stability and maximises opportunities for learners to succeed.

The good Ofsted rating is not just a recognition of classroom practice. It reflects a whole-prison commitment to rehabilitation through education and skills.

Proud to Support Rehabilitation Through Education

We are incredibly proud of the Novus team at Low Newton and the women who commit to developing themselves through learning every day.

This latest HMIP report reinforces the vital role of prison education in supporting rehabilitation and reducing reoffending. By working in partnership and maintaining high standards of delivery, education at Low Newton continues to create brighter futures.

We look forward to building on this success and continuing to provide high quality education, skills and training that transforms lives. For more information on news and case studies from across our establishments, visit our news section.