An expansion of employer-led work programmes in prisons has been quietly ditched after a million-pound procurement proved “poor value for taxpayer money”. The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) launched a £1 million tender two years ago searching for employers to deliver HMP Academies in 17 prisons over a four-year period. But Freedom of Information data reveals just one academy was set up since the contract was procured. Become a member for unlimited access to FE Week subscribe This article is for members only. Get full access to premium journalism, exclusive content, and early access to key stories — all for £75 per year.