Rhian Metcalf climbs the ladder to become a Policy Lead for His Majesty's Prison and Probation Service

Religion, Culture and Society graduate, Rhian Metcalf, has worked her way up the ladder to become a Policy Lead for His Majesty's Prison and Probation Service, after being inspired to learn during her time at the University of Central Lancashire.

Rhian Metcalf, BA (Hons) Religion, Culture and Society
Rhian Metcalf, BA (Hons) Religion, Culture and Society

Rhian Metcalf didn’t feel like she was reaching her true potential until she came to UCLan to study BA (Hons) Religion, Culture and Society. She said the course “ignited her passion for these interesting subjects.”  

Whilst studying, Rhian was given the opportunity to work as an academic researcher alongside being a student ambassador, which involved delivering lectures to further education students and facilitating a residential project. Her final year thesis focusing on institutionalised males was later published in the British Journal of Criminology.

After graduation, Rhian joined the National Probation Service as a receptionist where she obtained invaluable training and experience in different areas. She has worked within the Victim Information Service, Crown Court, Community Offender Management, Approved Premises and completed a short term in prison establishments.

Developing her career, Rhian went on to gain her Probation Officer qualification and completed an NCFE Level 3 specialised qualification in Developing Good Practice in Correctional Settings. Rhian became a fully qualified Probation Officer and has recently moved on to her current role as Policy Lead.

Rhian is proud of her professional achievements, having been granted a second publication in a criminology book and more prestigiously receiving a Butler Trust Award for innovation in practice from Princess Anne at St James’s Palace.

Reflecting on her time at University, Rhian said:

"The care, encouragement and belief I received from Dr Carolyn King and all the team based at UCLan had a transformative effect on my life and I truly believe that I wouldn’t be where I am today if I hadn’t had this experience. I will be forever grateful for my experience."