Correctional Programs

Adult Basic Education

Upon arrival in institutions, approximately 65% of offenders test at a completion level lower than Grade 8, and 82% lower than Grade 10. A research report completed in 1992 and titled "Can Educating Adult Offenders Counteract Recidivism?" concluded that specific intellectual skills gained through Adult Basic Education (ABE) may equip offenders to deal more effectively with daily problems encountered in the community.

Moreover, the sense of achievement and confidence that results from successfully completing such a program may encourage offenders to make further positive changes in their lives.

The ABE program is the education priority of the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC). It maintains the highest enrollment (approximately 40%) of all education programs. It has been enhanced to the Grade 10 level for the completion of the academic components in areas such as math, language and science. Successful completion provides a basis from which offenders can further their education in other areas where literacy is essential.

Secondary Education

The secondary education program leads to graduation at the Grade 12 level; it comprises approximately 25% of the participation in all of the education programs. Inmates in Canada's federal correctional facilities are well aware that a secondary school diploma has become a prerequisite for securing lasting employment and for entry into a variety of training opportunities. In increasing numbers, they are making personal commitments to this program. Accreditation received upon successful course completion fulfills provincial secondary school diploma requirements.

Vocational Education

Vocational programs are the choice of approximately 25% of all inmate students. They provide training in a wide range of job-related skills that are relevant to employment opportunities that exist in the institutions as well as in the community. Some of the subjects currently taught by CSC's vocational programs are:

• welding and metal trades,
• hairdressing,
• small engine repair,
• auto mechanics and auto body repair,
• electronics,
• carpentry and cabinet making,
• upholstery,
• plumbing,
• cooking,
• computer programming.

The vocational education programs include a generic skills component that is applicable to a number of vocational fields. This component addresses, at a minimum, the subjects of industrial and shop safety as well as personal and interpersonal skills for success in the work place.

Post-secondary Education

Post-secondary education offers offenders the opportunity to acquire a trade or profession, as well as to update trade qualifications prior to their release. Fewer than 10% of participants in education programs opt for post-secondary education. Offenders generally pay for their own post-secondary studies, unless it can be demonstrated that the education addresses a very specific need.

Skills for Employment

All correctional programs call for group interaction through which offenders learn and practice skills that they will need to draw upon to facilitate reintegration and to adapt to private sector work settings. These important skills are central to the core employability program CSC intended to develop and implement. More specifically, they include problem solving, critical thinking, punctuality, interacting with coworkers, being respectful of other people's opinions and feelings, and dealing with authority figures.

Earnings

Offenders who work while in an institution may earn between $5.25 and $6.90 daily, depending on their performance. Unemployed offenders are given a daily allowance of $1.00. Those who are unemployed through no fault of their own receive up a $2.50 allowance per day. Pay may be suspended for offenders who refuse to work or to participate in institutional programs.