Secure training centre

A secure training centre is a place of detention for children aged 12 to 17. Typically, secure training centres are used for younger boys or older boys who have been found to be vulnerable. These young people will have been sentenced to custody following conviction of a criminal offence. Or they may be being held on remand awaiting trial.

A secure training centre can accommodate between 50 and 80 young people in separate units. Each unit will house between five and eight young people. Children should receive 30 hours of education and training each week, and follow a school-day timetable.

Secure training centres are usually run by private companies. However, the Prison and Probation Service can take over the management of a secure training centre. For example if it is performing poorly.