Aspiring Probation Officer

Academics Ltd; Haywards Heath; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational provider in Haywards Heath is seeking an Aspiring Probation Officer to serve as a Pastoral & Learning Support Assistant. This role focuses on supporting vulnerable primary school children aged 6-11, fostering emotional resilience and engagement to prevent entry into the criminal justice system. Ideal candidates are Psychology, Criminology, Sociology, or Sport graduates who are passionate about making a significant impact in a supportive environment.

Benefits

Excellent on-site training and CPD

Supportive working environment

Trial days available

Qualifications

• Passionate about helping children achieve their potential.
• Excellent interpersonal skills required.
• No previous experience required.

Responsibilities

• Support vulnerable students to increase engagement and independence.
• Work with teachers to manage students with SEN and SEMH challenges.
• Be an instrumental part of the restorative practice in the classroom.

Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Empathy

Communication

Calmness under stress

Motivation

Education

Degree in Psychology

Degree in Criminology

Degree in Sociology

Degree in Sport

Job description

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