The Probation Qualifications Framework provides work-based pathways to qualify as either a Probation Services Officer (PSO) or a Probation Officer (PO).
Probation Services Officers and Probation Officers both work with offenders, but Probation Officers are qualified to work with higher risk offenders.
The Probation Services Officer qualification is a Vocational Qualification Level 3 Diploma in Probation Practice, gained while working as a PSO. Access to this qualification is open to all PSOs. This qualification is a stand-alone qualification in its own right, but it is also the first foundational element of the qualification to become a a Probation Officer.
To qualify as a Probation Officer, a qualified PSO can complete VQ Level 5 in Probation Practice and an honours degree in Community Justice, which is completed while working as a Trainee Probation Officer
or
Graduates with an honours degree in Criminology, Criminal Justice, Community Justice or Police Studies from within the last five years can qualify by completing the VQ Level 5 in Probation Practice and the Graduate Diploma in Community Justice, also completed while working as a Trainee Probation Officer.
Norfolk & Suffolk Probation Trust is committed to the training and development of its staff and has an Investors in People award.
Training is available to all Norfolk & Suffolk Probation Trust staff in a variety of subjects, according to the needs of their jobs. Courses include:
- in-house IT training, such as the European Computer Driving Licence
- child protection
- first aid
- higher level management qualifications
- motivational skills
- equality and diversity
