PRISONERS from all over the country are improving their education, thanks to a scheme being run at Risley Prison, Warrington.

It is also helping to cut crime. Information from former inmates has shown that they are less likely to re-offend when they leave prison.

There is also a chance that the success of the Risley scheme could lead the way for similar schemes in Russia.

Talks are going on between Risley and prison authorities in St Petersberg and a delegation from the city has visited Risley.

Courses at Risley range from basic skills through to RSA, degrees and post graduate qualifications.

When inmates from other prisons undertake the courses, they stay at Risley either until their sentences are finished, or they can be moved on to an open prison.

Risley has been at the forefront of education for prisoners since l963.

Lynda Oakley, who leads the higher education courses at Risley, said: "Prisoners have a better chance of a good job when they get out.

"They are less likely to re-offend because they have been shown a different way of life. Some who have left have started their own businesses.

"One went on to study for a law degree at Manchester University."

Prisoners study for five hours a day, plus occasional evening classes. The range of subjects includes: English, maths, business, information technology and supervisory management, plus most GCSE and A level subjects and life skills, including cookery and communication.

The prison itself is an accredited exam centre. It is one of a handful of prisons to have been given a British Standard quality award for education.

Tony Taylor

Tony Taylor is doing GCSE in English, maths and Spanish. He got English literature and psychology at another prison before moving to Risley.

"I have had to put a lot of effort in, but it has been worth it," he said.

"When I get out of prison, I want to be a drugs counsellor. I have changed as a result of what I have seen in prison. I want to help people. Education has given me an insight into a different way of things."

Peter

Peter, who is doing A levels in law, English language and English literature, had nine GCSEs before he went into prison.

"When I get out, I want to go to Manchester University. I feel strongly that studying will stop me from re-offending. It keeps you on the straight and narrow. It is a good influence."

John

John was moved from a prison in the north east to do an open university degree in computer sciences at Risley. He was a soft wear developer before he went into prison.

"I hope the degree will help to offset the fact that I have been in prison," said John. So far, John has achieved a 96 per cent pass in his results, which is among the highest passes.

Chink

"Chink," who is doing RSA English, is interested in fiction writing. He wrote a story about a super hero and through the course, improved the grammar and punctuation. The story is now with a publisher's agent and Chink hopes to write more.

Abid

Abid, who is doing a GNVQ in information technology, wants to go on to university after prison. He believes that when his mind is focused, he achieves more and he intends to continue this approach when he leaves prison.

Keith Atkinson

Keith Atkinson, who is doing A level art, believes that achieving qualifications could help him to get a job either in graphic design or sign writing when he gets out of prison.

"I think studying will open new doors for me," said Keith, who left school at 15 without any exams.

Donald

Another prisoner, Donald, was unable to read or write seven months ago. Now he can do both and is delighted about this.

Donald was brought up as a gypsy and had no schooling.

John is studying A level English literature and history. He left school at 15 without qualifications and has worked as a cotton spinner. When he leaves prison, he wants to go to Manchester University to do American studies.

After that, he aims to be a freelance writer on American politics.

John is doing business studies. He hopes to continue this at Oldham College when he leaves Risley. After that he wants to go to university and study stage management. John's ultimate ambition is to work in the West End.

He has already had a taste of this when he had a chance to take part in a production there.

Alan McNulty is studying for a BA degree in Egyptology. He visited Egypt three times before going into prison. He has had heart trouble and will not be able to work. "Achieving my degree will be a challenge," he said.

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