Novus

Looking for a role where you can make a real difference in the lives of learners?

We’re recruiting for an exciting Learning and Skills Worker role to join our Novus Transforming Lives team at HMP Forest Bank.

This is the chance to be part of a passionate team, helping individuals build confidence, gain valuable skills, and move towards brighter, more positive futures.

What makes this role stand out:
✔ The opportunity to make a meaningful difference every day
✔ A supportive and collaborative team environment
✔ Excellent annual leave
✔ Competitive pension scheme
✔ Dedicated wellbeing and personal development support.

You’ll be working with learners from a wide range of backgrounds, helping them overcome barriers and unlock their potential through education and training.

Apply here: https://ow.ly/Gme350Z2En3

We’re incredibly proud to share that our collaborative project with The Bowes Museum has been Highly Commended at the Museums + Heritage Awards 2026 in the Community Engagement Programme of the Year category.

“Unheard Voices” brought together Novus learners at HMP Deerbolt, artist Jonah York, and The Bowes Museum to explore powerful themes including identity, childhood, travel, illusion, and our shared human desire to create meaning and connection.

As part of the project, more than 80 objects from the museum’s collection were taken into the prison, where learners discussed, interpreted, and reimagined them through open conversation and collaboration. Together, they selected objects for display and helped shape how their stories would be shared with visitors.

The final co-creation can now be seen on the Conversation Wall at The Bowes Museum, giving visitors the chance to reflect on both the themes explored and the creative journey behind the project.

A huge thank you to everyone involved in making this project so meaningful, and congratulations to all the winners, highly commended, and shortlisted organisations recognised this year.

You can read more about the awards here:

Museums + Heritage Awards - Museums + Heritage Awards At a glittering ceremony the 2026 Museums + Heritage Awards, sponsored by Altair Media, have celebrated brilliant projects, trailblazing teams, and inspiring individuals who are truly raising the bar for our sector.

At Novus, we know that successful rehabilitation is about more than securing employment on release - it’s about creating sustainable careers, purpose and long-term opportunities.

Recently, a learner from the business class at HMP Thorn Cross secured a Release on Temporary Licence (RoTL) placement with Cheshire Pub Co, where he has been able to showcase his artistic talent in a live working environment.

Supported by Novus Business Tutor, John Dooley, he has been developing his portfolio while continuing to follow his chosen creative pathway during his time at Thorn Cross. His work has included artwork inspired by the town’s history and the pub’s Italian theme, alongside sign writing for menus and notice boards.

Reflecting on the impact of the opportunity, John shared:
“He’s a different man now - absolutely buzzing with a renewed sense of purpose.”

Opportunities like this can play a vital role in helping learners rebuild confidence, develop industry experience and progress towards meaningful, sustainable futures after release.

Thank you to Cheshire Pub Co. for supporting rehabilitation through opportunity and creativity.