Hiring process - Correctional officer - Training and appointment

Once all of the previous steps have been successfully completed, candidates will be eligible to be selected for the Correctional Training Program and may be invited to attend a future training session. An information package providing details about the program will be provided.

  1. 7. Correctional Training Program (CTP)
  2. 8. Appointment

7. Correctional Training Program (CTP)

As of April 9, 2019, Correctional Service Canada recruits receive an allowance* of $400/week, up to a maximum of $5,600 for 14 weeks, during the third stage of the Correctional Training Program (CTP). This allowance, paid bi-weekly, is in addition to the meal and hospitality fees already covered for recruits at this same CTP stage. Administrative procedures for payment of the allowance are initiated upon arrival at the Training Academy.

*Individuals who receive a salary as a public servant are not eligible. Recruits who already receive a salary or financial compensation through another program while their participation at CTP are responsible to inform the parties concerned.

The training program required for all Correctional Officers is called the Correctional Training Program. The CTP is a blended learning approach conducted in a variety of settings, including on-line learning at home and in classrooms, gymnasiums, exercise fields, and the firing range. Correctional Officers are trained to handle firearms and chemical and inflammatory agents. They will also participate in self-defense and other physical training; therefore, it is important to be in good physical condition.

Candidates must be willing to undertake training at the CSC National Training Academy located in Kingston, Ontario.

The Correctional Training Program (CTP) is divided into three Stages:

  • Stage 1 - Online learning
  • Stage 2 - Pre-session online assignments and material
  • Stage 3 - In-class training at the CSC National Training Academy

Stage 1: Online learning requires four (4) weeks to complete.

Once Stage 1 has been successfully completed, candidates may be selected to participate in Stages 2 and 3 of CTP based on CSC needs. A conditional offer of employment will be provided indicating the site of employment upon successful completion of the training program. The following conditions outlined in the letter must be met prior to appointment and maintained during employment:

  • Passing the pre-employment medical exam prior to the first day of the in-class portion (Stage 3) of the CTP;
  • Obtaining a valid Standard First Aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) 'Level C' with automated external defibrillator (AED) certificate from a qualified provider approved by any province/territory in Canada, and in accordance with Part XVI of the Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations.
  • Meeting the psychological requirements as determined by Correctional Service Canada.
  • Successful completion of Stage 3 of the CTP.

Additionally, recruits must possess a valid and unrestricted provincial or territorial motor vehicle driver's license. For positions in Quebec, candidates must possess a valid Class 4A driver's license (Emergency Vehicle) granted by the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ). If your license expires, is removed or suspended during the CTP you must immediately notify CSC.

Stage 2: Pre-session assignments, which are also completed online, require approximately two (2) to four (4) weeks to complete. 

Stage 3: In-class training takes place at the CSC National Training Academy. This Stage includes sessions in law and policy, use of firearms, chemical and inflammatory agents, fire safety, self-defense and arrest and control techniques, use of batons as a defensive technique, suicide prevention, the Engagement and Intervention Model, etc. This stage of training is twelve (12) to thirteen (13) weeks in duration.

During Stage 3 of the CTP, progress, behavior, values and ethics are continually assessed and you will be provided feedback throughout the Program. It is important to note that you can be released from the training program at any time.

8. Appointment

Once Stages 1, 2, and 3 of the Correctional Training Program have been successfully completed and all conditions of employment, as well as occupational certification requirements, have been met, an offer of employment will be presented confirming the start date and location of employment

Relocation Assistance

Employees who are required to move in order to live within a reasonable distance of their work location will be offered relocation assistance up to $5,000 for moving expenses. Please see the Integrated Initial Appointees Relocation Program (IIARP) for details.