Graduate Aspiring Probation Officer – SEMH – Reading

Education |Social Care | SEMH | Graduate Role | Psychology | Criminology
📍 Location: Reading
📅 Start Date: ASAP
💼 Contract: Full-time, Term-time only (39 weeks)
⏰ Hours: Monday-Friday, 8.30am-4pm
💷 Pay: £89-£115 per day 

❓ Are you passionate about supporting vulnerable young people affected by trauma and exclusion?
Do you believe in the power of restorative approaches and education to transform lives?
 
🏫 About the School
A well-respected specialist SEMH school in Reading is seeking a dedicated Aspiring Probation Officer to support children with social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs and associated challenging behaviours.

Many students have experienced adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), trauma, or family dysfunction, and face barriers such as low educational attainment, stigmatisation, and social marginalisation. The school provides a structured, supportive, and therapeutic environment where pupils can develop confidence, resilience, and the skills they need to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.
 
🎯 Your Role
As an Aspiring Probation Officer, you will:

• 🤝 Build positive, trusting relationships with vulnerable and disengaged young people
• 💬 Support pupils with SEMH needs, behaviour challenges, and trauma-related difficulties
• 🌈 Help students re-engage with learning and develop life skills
• 👥 Work alongside teachers and specialist staff to implement restorative and trauma-informed strategies
• 🛡️ Provide consistency, safety, and emotional support to empower pupils
• 💡 Model positive behaviour, de-escalation, and inclusion at all times

 
👤 Person Specification

• Passionate about helping vulnerable young people overcome barriers and reach their potential
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust quickly
• Calm, patient, and resilient, especially in high-pressure situations
• Confident using de-escalation strategies and managing challenging behaviour
• Trauma-informed, empathetic, compassionate, and emotionally intelligent
• Motivated, reliable, and professional, with a commitment to safeguarding and inclusion

 
🌟 What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience working with vulnerable young people in SEMH settings
• Exposure to restorative practice, trauma-informed approaches, and behaviour management
• Valuable insight for careers in probation, youth justice, social care, psychology, or education
• Supportive environment with training and CPD opportunities

 
📩 How to Apply
If you’re ready to make a real difference in the lives of young people, apply now or contact Eleanor Chessun-Lawrence at Pertemps Education for more information.
🗓️ Right to work in the UK required. Term-time role only.