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- Tasks: Prepare and deliver pre-sentence reports while conducting interviews at court.
- Company: Join Red Snapper Recruitment, a leader in offender rehabilitation recruitment.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working with remote options and competitive pay rates.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the justice system while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Must have a recognised probation qualification and experience in report writing.
- Other info: Referral bonuses available for successful candidate recommendations.
Job Description
Red Snapper Recruitment are recruiting for a Probation Officer on behalf of our client, the National Probation Service.\\n\\nWe are currently looking for a Probation Officer to join the Oxford & Southern Oxfordshire Magistrates Court team. This role is ideal for experienced Probation Officers with strong report-writing skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a busy court team.\\n\\nAs a Court-Based Probation Officer, you will focus primarily on delivering high-quality pre-sentence reports (PSRs), conducting face-to-face interviews with individuals at court, and working closely with the judiciary and court staff to support sentencing decisions.\\n\\nKey Responsibilities\\n\\nPrepare and deliver one Pre-Sentence Report (PSR) per day, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and professional analysis\\n\\nConduct face-to-face interviews with individuals at Oxford Magistrates Court 2-3 days per week\\n\\nWork remotely for the remaining 2-3 days, ensuring productivity and effective time management\\n\\nLiaise with the court, legal representatives, and other professionals to support sentencing and risk management\\n\\nProvide risk assessments and sentencing proposals based on evidence, structured assessment, and professional judgement\\n\\nEnsure all work is aligned with NPS standards, public protection principles, and rehabilitation objectives\\n\\nMaintain accurate, up-to-date records of all assessments and recommendations\\n\\nWhat You'll Need\\n\\nA recognised probation qualification (e.g., DipPS, DipSW, CQSW or equivalent)\\n\\nExperience writing PSRs and working within a criminal justice environment\\n\\nStrong communication, analytical, and report-writing skills\\n\\nThe ability to work independently and meet daily reporting deadlines\\n\\nA flexible and professional approach to court-based work\\n\\nFull enhanced DBS (or willingness to undergo one)\\n\\nContract Details\\n\\nLocation: Oxford Magistrates Court, OX1 1RZ\\n\\nHybrid Working: 2-3 days per week at court; remainder remote\\n\\nContract: 3 months initially (with possibility of extension)\\n\\nHours: 37 hours per week\\n\\nSalary: £21.75 per hour PAYE or £28.64 per hour Umbrella\\n\\nReferral Scheme\\n\\nKnow someone suitable? Refer them!
We offer £75 in retail vouchers of your choice for successful referrals who are not already known to us.\\n\\nDue to high application volumes, if you do not hear from us within 7 working days, your application has not been successful.\\n\\nRSR Justice is a market-leading recruitment business, dedicated to providing quality candidates to the offender rehabilitation and supervision sectors.\\n\\nRed Snapper Recruitment is part of the Red Snapper Group, an equal opportunities employer. We act as both an employment agency (permanent) and an employment business (temporary), offering a free and confidential service to candidates
Probation Officer- Court Reports employer: Red Snapper Recruitment Limited
Contact Detail:
Red Snapper Recruitment Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Probation Officer- Court Reports
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the National Probation Service's standards and guidelines. Understanding their approach to risk management and rehabilitation will help you align your discussions and demonstrate your commitment to their objectives during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former probation officers, especially those who have worked in court settings. They can provide valuable insights into the role and may even share tips on how to impress during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for potential scenario-based questions that assess your report-writing and analytical skills. Practising how you would handle specific cases can showcase your expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your flexibility and ability to work independently by sharing examples from your past experiences. Highlighting your time management skills and how you've successfully balanced remote and court-based work will make you a strong candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Probation Officer- Court Reports
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of a Probation Officer, especially in relation to preparing Pre-Sentence Reports (PSRs). Familiarise yourself with the key skills required, such as strong report-writing and analytical abilities.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight your relevant experience in the criminal justice environment, particularly any previous roles involving report writing or court work. Make sure to emphasise your qualifications and any specific training related to probation services.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for rehabilitation and public protection. Provide examples of your experience with PSRs and how you have successfully managed deadlines and worked independently in a busy environment.
Proofread Your Application: Ensure that your application is free from errors. Given the importance of clear communication in this role, a well-written and error-free application will demonstrate your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Red Snapper Recruitment Limited
✨Showcase Your Report-Writing Skills
Since the role heavily involves preparing Pre-Sentence Reports, be ready to discuss your experience in report writing. Bring examples of past reports if possible, and highlight how you ensure accuracy and clarity in your work.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
As a Probation Officer, you'll need to conduct face-to-face interviews and liaise with various professionals. Prepare to discuss how you effectively communicate with individuals from diverse backgrounds and how you handle sensitive situations.
✨Highlight Your Ability to Work Independently
This role requires a mix of court-based and remote work. Be prepared to explain how you manage your time and stay productive while working independently, especially when meeting daily reporting deadlines.
✨Understand the Court Environment
Familiarise yourself with the workings of the court system and the role of a Probation Officer within it. Showing that you understand the dynamics of the court environment will demonstrate your readiness for the position.
