At a Glance
- Tasks: Support Principal Psychologists in implementing offending behaviour programmes and conducting assessments.
- Company: Join the Scottish Prison Service, dedicated to reducing re-offending and enhancing public safety.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, opportunities for professional development, and a chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: 16 positions available, with flexible location preferences for successful candidates.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in forensic psychology while contributing to a safer Scotland.
- Qualifications: Degree in Psychology with Graduate Basis for Registration; relevant experience in applied psychology is essential.
The predicted salary is between 36268 - 42587 £ per year.
You will provide support to the Principal Psychologist and Consultant Psychologists specialist areas of work being undertaken, with an emphasis on the implementation of offending behaviour programmes and, over time, risk assessment and management, all of which contributes to the SPS aims or reducing re-offending and creating a safer Scotland.
There are 16 posts available in total with 10 positions starting in 2025, followed by a further 6 in approximately March 2026. Candidates progressing to the interview stage of the recruitment process will be asked to provide their location preferences and successful candidates will be offered assignments in order of merit, aligned to location preferences.
Responsibilities: To conduct and support the Offending Behaviour Programmes selection process. This will include completion of assessments to identify the needs of individual prisoners, and reporting the findings of those assessments to multi-disciplinary case conferences. To deliver and, where appropriate, supervise, offending behaviour group work interventions. To conduct individual assessment and/or interventions, when requested to do so by the Principal Psychologist or Consultant Psychologist. To represent, and provide psychological input, to relevant multi-disciplinary meetings. To manage referral systems to psychology and to provide input as part of a multi-disciplinary team to local establishments\' prisoner care needs. To implement and manage systems for collection and collation of information and data for psychology projects, ensuring compliance with Data Protection Legislation and SPS guidelines. Where required, to disseminate such data to relevant parties. Person Specification SPS recruitment and selection practice is based on the fundamentals of our Behavioural Competency Framework. This identifies behaviours and standards required both of applicants seeking to join us, and our staff in their respective roles. Assessment of specific behaviours, of which there are twelve, will be determined by the role you are applying for. Whilst it is unlikely you will be assessed on all of them , you will be assessed on these identified as key to role.Qualifications RequirementsDegree in Psychology conferring Graduate Basis for Registration with the British Psychological Society
(essential)
Experience Requirements Knowledge Skills Requirements Reflective Practice: Willing and able to engage in reflective practice as a Forensic Psychologist in Training, to enhance and develop towards becoming a practitioner psychologist. (essential)Psychology Experience: Experience of working within a forensic or other relevant field of applied psychology. (essential)Understanding of the pathway to becoming an independent practitioner psychologist: Understands the work undertaken by Forensic Psychologists in prison, and have given consideration to their plan for training as part of the British Psychological Society Qualification in Forensic Psychology (Stage 2). (essential)Selection Methods Please refer to full job description on SPS career site
Forensic Psychologists in Training, Permanent employer: Scottish Prison Service
As a leading employer in the field of forensic psychology, we offer a supportive and collaborative work environment across various locations in Scotland. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive training programmes and opportunities to engage in meaningful work that contributes to reducing re-offending and enhancing public safety. Join us to be part of a dedicated team where your contributions make a real difference in the lives of individuals and communities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Forensic Psychologists in Training, Permanent
✨Get Involved in Local Psychological Communities
Join local psychology associations or groups where professionals gather. Whether it’s workshops, conferences, or social events, connecting with others in the field can lead to job opportunities and insider info on unadvertised openings.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re a recent graduate, don’t forget to tap into your university’s career services. They often have exclusive partnerships with organisations looking for fresh talents, plus access to internships that could lead to full-time roles.
✨Showcase Your Skills Online
Create a blog or a LinkedIn page where you share insights about psychology theories or current trends. This not only showcases your knowledge but can help you connect with like-minded professionals and potential employers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
When you find a role like Forensic Psychologists in Training, Permanent at Scottish Prison Service, make your application stand out by applying directly through our website. This gives you a better chance to be seen by hiring managers. Plus, tailor your application to highlight your passion for psychology and relevant experiences!
We think you need these skills to ace Forensic Psychologists in Training, Permanent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV with Relevant Experience:In psychology, it’s crucial to highlight your relevant experience, such as internships, research projects, or any volunteer work in mental health settings. Make sure to include specific roles and responsibilities, demonstrating how you've applied theoretical knowledge in real-world situations—this is what gets us excited!
Show Off Your Academic Achievements:Given the nature of psychology, we want to see your academic journey laid out clearly. Include your degree(s), grades, and any specialised courses or certifications that set you apart. If you've got published papers or presentations at conferences, be sure to mention them—it shows your commitment to the field!
Personal Statement: Make It Count:Your personal statement is your chance to shine! Share insights about why you’re passionate about psychology and how this role at Scottish Prison Service connects with your career goals. Be honest about your motivations and what you hope to learn—this is key for a full-time position and helps us gauge your fit in our team!
Focus on Soft Skills in Your Application:Psychology is as much about people as it is about theories. Highlight your soft skills such as communication, empathy, and teamwork in your application. These traits are essential in our field and will help us see how you connect with others, so don't hold back in showcasing them!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Prison Service
✨Brush Up on Key Psychological Theories
Before stepping into the interview with Scottish Prison Service, revisit key psychological theories that are relevant to the role, like cognitive behavioural therapy or humanistic psychology. Expect to discuss these during your interview, as they want to see how you apply theory to practice.
✨Bring Real-Life Case Studies
Prepare a couple of case studies or anecdotes that demonstrate your practical experience in psychology. Whether it’s handling a difficult client or designing a psychological assessment, these stories will highlight your skills and help you stand out in your full-time interview.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Ethical Guidelines
Get comfy with the ethical guidelines set by the British Psychological Society. Be ready to chat about how you ensure ethical practice in your work, as this is crucial in the psychology field, and Scottish Prison Service will be keen to know you’ve got integrity.
✨Showcase Your Continuous Learning
Since you're going for a full-time gig, it’s essential to demonstrate your commitment to ongoing professional development. Bring up any workshops, courses, or readings you’ve engaged in recently. This shows Scottish Prison Service that you’re not just there for a job, but genuinely passionate about the field.
