AT a recent Ross Rotary Club meeting, Joy Blank spoke of her four years teaching inmates in Stafford Prison.

When her mother qualified as a teacher at the age of 42, Joy was 15 and it inspired her to want to teach. She completed her training and 133 applications later secured a teaching post in Essex. After gaining experience she was appointed to a post at Stafford College, teaching essential skills to adult students. While there, she became aware that the educational department of Stafford Prison was recruiting for a similar post and she ended up working behind bars.

Prior to taking up her role, Joy attended a two-week induction course covering stringent prison procedures on personal safety, security, dealing with inmates and summoning assistance. She emphasised that education and vocational training are key in providing inmates with skills and confidence to find employment and live crime free lives on release. She added that the ability to read, do basic arithmetic and demonstrate some IT skills are essential to coping in today's world, which is a challenge given that around 60% of the prison population has a reading age of less than 11. Sadly, figures show that 70% of inmates are likely to re-offend within two years.

During her time there Joy experienced some very sad times but there were amusing incidents as well. She spoke of 'Frank' who went to a dental hygienist class, toothbrush in hand, but didn't have a single tooth. Joy has since moved on to new challenges but has fond memories of her time behind bars.

Ross Rotary Club meets every Monday evening 6.30pm for 7pm at the Chase Hotel. Guests and potential members are very welcome. Please visit our website www.rossrotary.com