Driving Change: Scotland’s First Prison-Based Automotive Academy

The Automotive Academy offers candidates the chance to develop practical skills while earning industry-recognised qualifications. Through its training programme, three cohorts of prisoners will participate in a 10-week course that covers essential skills such as wiring, soldering, valeting and engine rebuilding. 

Sponsored by Toyota (GB), the programme is the first Automotive Employability Academy of its kind inside a prison in Scotland. Toyota has generously donated tools and a vehicle for the trainees to work on and has committed to supporting employment opportunities for participants upon release through its dealerships across Scotland. 

This project has been made possible due to funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) with the aims to increase life chances and strengthen communities by investing in high-quality skills training and opportunities.  

Dundee and Angus College also deliver a Landscaping and Horticulture Academy at HMP Perth. Launched last year, the programme has already proven successful, creating a vibrant flower and herb garden on-site. Over 10 weeks, participants gain hands-on experience in planting, potting, fence building and lawn care, developing practical skills that make a real difference.