Author Ron Wilson launches a new press campaign for ‘Joseph Akeroyd: rediscovering a prison reformer’

Book provides a fresh insight into the nature of prison system in Victoria, Australia from 1924 to 1947

Ron Wilson, in his first literary offering titled “Joseph Akeroyd: rediscovering a prison reformer” (published by Xlibris AU), combines the historical and contemporary experiences of prison reformers and prison education practitioners to provide unique insights into the complex yet compelling experiences in implementing reforms within prisons.

This book takes a closer look into the legacy of Joseph Akeroyd, the longest serving inspector general in Victoria’s penal system between 1924 and 1947. After many years of brutal punitive prison regime, Akeroyd brought his education inspired therapeutic approach into prison and prisoner management. These radical and innovative reforms occurred between and beyond two world wars and a major international economic depression. Whilst many of his reforms were not heralded at the time and for many years after, this biographical account celebrates these reforms and examines the relevance of these reforms in modern-day penology.

“This book engages readers at several different levels,” Wilson states. “It 1) Reveals the oscillating and diverse political, judicial and community views on the functions of prisons; 2) Examines the challenging nature of prison reform, and the strategies reformers used to fight for and implement change; 3) The historical interrelationship between education in prisons and management of prisons; and 4) Provides real life stories and anecdotes to share sometimes humourous and tragic insights into the experiences of prison educators, prison management and prisoners.”

It is the author’s hope that the publication of “Joseph Akeroyd: rediscovering a prison reformer” will challenge readers to reflect on the role of education in prisons and gain insights on the challenges involved in prisoner education. Visit https://www.xlibris.com/en-au/bookstore/bookdetails/831097-joseph-akeroyd-rediscovering-a-prison-reformer to get a copy.

About the Author
Ron Wilson has broad experience in education and vocational training for over 50 years having worked as a teacher, school principal, TAFE/polytechnic general manager. He held board leadership roles including deputy chair of the Adult Community and Further Education Board, member of Adult Learning Australia Board, and twice president of the Australasian Corrections Education Association. In 1996, Wilson was recognised with the Public Services Medal (PSM) in the Australia Day Honours for outstanding public service for introducing vocational education and training to Victoria’s prison system. Wilson completed a Ph.D. in management (RMIT), following his M.Ed. (educational leadership and management) and M.Ed. (educational research). Wilson has undergraduate degrees in arts (social sciences), education (physical education), a postgraduate diploma in special education, and a diploma in teaching (primary). For more details, visit diosmaconsultancy.net.au

Xlibris Publishing Australia, an Author Solutions, LLC imprint, is a self-publishing services provider dedicated to serving Australian authors. By focusing on the needs of creative writers and artists and adopting the latest print-on-demand publishing technology and strategies, we provide expert publishing services with direct and personal access to quality publication in hardcover, trade paperback, custom leather-bound and full-color formats. To date, Xlibris has helped to publish more than 60,000 titles. For more information, visit xlibrispublishing.com.au or call 1-800-844-927 to receive a free publishing guide.

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