A new barbering course at the Alice Springs Correctional Facility is giving students in custody the opportunity to build practical skills, confidence and potential pathways into employment.
Delivered through the Charles Darwin University Prisoner Education and Training in NT Department of Corrections Agreement, the short, non-accredited vocational skills course has already proven popular, with a waitlist of participants hoping to take part.
The course is being offered to low-risk participants and focuses on personal and professional hygiene, entry-level barbering skills, communication and client interaction.
CDU alumna, salon owner and trainer Esme Pye said the experience had been rewarding and had challenged her expectations.
“Going in, I didn’t know if anyone would be interested. Now we have a waitlist of people hoping to get into the next course,” Ms Pye said.
“From the very start, the fellas have been incredibly responsive, respectful and so eager to learn.
“From our first few sessions, it has been mind-blowing to see their determination. Some of them have shown amazing technical skills that we would normally see from a third-year apprentice.”
Ms Pye said she hoped the training would help participants build confidence, purpose and a sense of possibility.
CDU Interim Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Fiona Coulson said the course was a strong example of using education and training to support reintegration outcomes.
“CDU is proud to provide practical training that supports both career skills and personal development,” Professor Coulson said.
“This type of training helps people in custody develop skills that can support their confidence, wellbeing and future job-readiness.
“By providing these training opportunities, CDU is supporting individuals to build skills and confidence that may assist them when they reintegrate into the community.”
The CDU Prisoner Education and Training program, in partnership with the Department of Corrections, was recently announced as one of three Northern Territory Training Awards finalists for the 2026 Industry Collaboration Award, highlighting the program’s impact and success.
