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Other routes to becoming a probation officer

Internal pathways

The internal campaign is open to existing probation service officers and all internal Ministry of Justice candidates.  

Probation services officer progression

If you’re already a probation services officer (PSO) working in the Probation Service, you can apply for the Professional Qualification in Probation (PQiP) PSO progression scheme (when open). Talk to your line manager for more information or visit your HMPPS intranet.

You’ll need to have at least 6 months effective service in your PSO role and a minimum level 3 qualification. A level 3 qualification is equivalent to an A-level or NVQ level 3, for example.

Other internal Ministry of Justice (MoJ) candidates

PQiP is open to all MoJ staff with a minimum level 3 qualification. Please see skills and qualifications needed.

Talk to your line manager for more information or visit your HMPPS intranet.

Returners scheme

If you have previously worked as a Probation Officer, or Senior Probation Officer, in the Probation Service and left within the last 5 years, our returners scheme will help you fast track your way back.

Find out about the Returners scheme