Last call for Professional Qualification in Probation

For the first time, applicants do not need to be graduates to join the programme, but should hold a Level 3 qualification such as A levels.

The selection will be based on their application as well as assessed personality traits, with an emphasis on people-skills, eager learning, and a desire to assist offenders in changing their lives positively.

While in the programme, trainees will work as probation service officers (PSOs) and will study to earn a fully funded professional qualification in probation.

The learning includes academic theories, knowledge assessments, and on-the-job practice.

Non-graduate recruits will complete the programme within 27 months whilst it will take 15-21 months for those with a Level 5 qualification.

After qualifying, probation officers can look forward to applying for full-time jobs with starting annual salaries at £35k depending on the location.

Charlotte Davies, a probation learning lead in Worle, said: "We are always looking for a range of different kinds of people to join the Probation Service.

"Introducing a new non-graduate route into becoming a probation officer opens up this rewarding career to so many more people.

"It is also a brilliant way to develop and gain a professional qualification to be proud of, alongside the important day to day work a probation officer does."

Such a programme offers the best possible preparation for life as probation officer as it includes time spent within a working probation office, as well as other probation work settings such as a prison or court.

Currently, there are 32 training vacancies available in the South West.

To apply for the programme or find out more, visit prisonandprobationjobs.gov.uk/roles-at-hmpps/overview-of-the-probation-officer-role/probation-officer-training-pqip/ or search for 'Professional Qualification in Probation (PQiP)’.