The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has strengthened its capacity to train and develop correctional personnel following the graduation of 12 officers from Instructors Training Course 26/01.
The officers were formally recognised during a Passing Out Parade held at the Carl Rattray Staff College on Friday, July 17, 2026.
The course began on June 1 with 17 participants, comprising two corporals and 15 correctional officers, including four women. Twelve officers successfully completed the physically and mentally demanding programme.
Participants received extensive training in methods of instruction, skill at arms, fault-checking, parade procedures, professional ethics, supervision of subordinates, communication and public speaking. They were also assessed through practical exercises, presentations and the DCS Learning Management System.
Delivering the course report, Director of the Carl Rattray Staff College, Ms. Martin, commended the graduates for the resilience, teamwork and professionalism demonstrated throughout the programme.
“Their successful completion of this programme is a testament to their dedication, perseverance and professionalism. They now leave better equipped to serve as competent instructors capable of developing and mentoring others while upholding the highest standards of the Department,” she said.
Reviewing Officer, Superintendent “A” Ivan Randall, charged the graduates to recognise the significance of their new responsibilities and the influence they will have on future correctional officers.
“Today, you did not just receive a certificate. You received a new title. You are no longer only correctional officers. From today, you will be the standard-bearers of the Department of Correctional Services,” Superintendent Randall said.
He encouraged the new instructors to teach with competence, character and courage, noting that their conduct and the standards they uphold will shape the attitudes and performance of the officers placed under their guidance.
“Whatever you teach, the trainees will copy. Whatever you tolerate, they will do. Whatever standard you set will become the standard of the DCS,” he cautioned.
Superintendent Randall also underscored the need for instructors to have a thorough knowledge of the Department’s laws, regulations, policies, standard operating procedures and operational practices. He said instructors must be able to explain not only how duties should be performed, but also why established procedures are essential to institutional safety and effective correctional management.
Acknowledging the complexities of Jamaica’s correctional environment, including ageing infrastructure, overcrowding, gang-related activities and limited resources, he said effective training is critical to preparing officers to perform their duties safely and professionally.
“Do not just teach policies, teach pride. Do not just teach drill, teach discipline. Do not just teach rules, teach reasons,” Superintendent Randall charged.
Three graduates received awards for outstanding performance:
- Top All-Round Instructor: Corporal Javair Johnson
- Runner-Up All-Round Instructor: Correctional Officer 1 Sanika Wallace
- Academic Award: Correctional Officer 1 Nicoy Stephen
The graduation of the 12 new instructors represents a significant investment in the future of Jamaica’s correctional services. Through their leadership, expertise and example, they will help to develop officers who are disciplined, capable and prepared to serve professionally within the country’s complex correctional environment.
As they assume this critical responsibility, the graduates are charged to uphold the highest standards, inspire excellence and equip the next generation of correctional officers to contribute meaningfully to rehabilitation, public safety and national security.
