Aspiring Probation Officer

Aspiring Probation Officer - Haywards Heath - September 2025

Are you passionate about restorative approaches?

Are you passionate about demonstrating the value of education to vulnerable children?

We are looking for a dedicated Aspiring Probation Officer to fulfill the role of a Pastoral & Learning Support Assistant (LSA) to join a friendly team and work in a challenging primary school for boys aged 6-11.

This role will give aspiring probation officers essential restorative experience within anti-social and challenging settings - the perfect opportunity if you have aspirations within probation, rehabilitation, prison, youth and social justice. Based on holistic and therapeutic practice, with a focus on restorative practice, this Learning Support Assistant role is an amazing opportunity for Criminology/Psychology Graduates or someone interested in working in youth/probation work.

The role will give you experience working with vulnerable students, increasing their engagement, attainment and overall independence, aiming to ensure they do not enter the criminal justice system. You will be working alongside teachers and specialist staff to support students with special educational needs (SEN), and a range of associated social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) challenges and traumas. Some children / young people will have suffered adverse childhood experiences, and you will identify their risks and needs, escalating where necessary. Many of the children face various barriers in life and are more 'at risk' of negative outcomes. You will be instrumental in providing consistency, and equipping children and young people with tools to ensure they feel safe, secure, empowered, and believe that they can succeed in life.

Person Specification

* Passionate about helping children and young people achieve their full potential
* Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively
* Able to build confidence and motivation
* Approachable, and able to build robust and effective relationships with students
* Able to remain calm and resilient when placed in situations of stress or conflict
* High levels of empathy, caring, compassionate, and a good listener
* Motivated and enthusiastic, with a professional approach to work

ASAP start, trial days taking place to ensure the role and school is right for you
Excellent on-site training, support and CPD is provided to ensure safeguarding of all students

£85-£90 per day PAYE
Mon-Fri, 08:30 to 15:55
Term time only

No previous experience is required

If you are a graduate of Psychology / Criminology / Sociology / Sport, you'll find this role particularly applicable to your degree

You MUST have right to work in the UK in order to apply - no Visa sponsorship

Candidates registering with Academics Ltd will need to have or apply for an Enhanced DBS and/or overseas police check where necessary