Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Support vulnerable students in a primary school, enhancing their engagement and independence.
- Company: Join a friendly team dedicated to restorative practices in education.
- Benefits: Enjoy excellent training, support, and a competitive daily pay rate.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on children's lives while gaining valuable experience in youth and social justice.
- Qualifications: Ideal for Psychology, Criminology, or Sociology graduates; no prior experience needed.
- Other info: Trial days available to ensure the right fit; must have UK work rights.
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
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Contact Detail:
Academics Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Aspiring Probation Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with restorative practices and how they apply to education. Understanding these concepts will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your genuine passion for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with local community initiatives or volunteer opportunities that focus on youth support or rehabilitation. This hands-on experience can provide valuable insights and make your application stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the field of probation and youth work. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to connect with others who share your interests, as they may offer advice or even job leads.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential interview scenarios by practising how you would handle challenging situations with students. Being able to articulate your approach to conflict resolution will showcase your suitability for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Aspiring Probation Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of an Aspiring Probation Officer and the specific requirements of the Pastoral & Learning Support Assistant role. This will help you tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Even if you don't have direct experience, think about any volunteer work, internships, or projects that demonstrate your passion for helping vulnerable children and your understanding of restorative practices. Be sure to include these in your CV and cover letter.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your enthusiasm for the role and your commitment to supporting children and young people. Use specific examples to illustrate your interpersonal skills, empathy, and ability to build relationships, as these are key qualities for the position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, take the time to carefully proofread your CV and cover letter. Look for any spelling or grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are clear and professional. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Academics Ltd.
✨Show Your Passion for Restorative Approaches
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for restorative practices during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or insights you have about how these approaches can positively impact vulnerable children and their development.
✨Demonstrate Your Interpersonal Skills
Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and build relationships. Prepare examples of how you've successfully interacted with others, especially in challenging situations, to showcase your interpersonal skills.
✨Emphasise Empathy and Resilience
Be ready to discuss your empathetic nature and how you handle stress or conflict. Provide specific instances where you've shown compassion and resilience, particularly in difficult circumstances.
✨Connect Your Background to the Role
If you have a degree in Psychology, Criminology, or a related field, make sure to connect your academic background to the responsibilities of the role. Discuss how your studies have prepared you to work with children facing social, emotional, and mental health challenges.
