The University of Portsmouth has become one of just two providers in the UK to deliver the Level 3 Probation Services Practitioner Apprenticeship.
The programme welcomed its first cohort of 44 students and is offered through a joint initiative between Professional and Flexible Learning and the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice (SCCJ) at the University, working closely with Liverpool John Moores University , the only other UK provider.
Delivered nationally, with the University of Portsmouth responsible for Wales, the South-West, South Central, London, Kent, Surrey, Sussex, and the East of England, the Apprenticeship combines online learning with in-person training and aims to invest in staff through qualifications while improving retention by helping employees feel skilled and valued.
Over the next four years, the University aims to train approximately 1,400 apprentices through a rolling programme with bi-monthly cohorts, supporting the development of a highly skilled probation workforce. Apprentices will gain hands-on experience while completing formal training over 12 to 18 months, working towards a nationally recognised qualification in probation practice.
This course provides clear career progression and helps build a workforce trained to consistent professional standards. By investing in staff development, it supports retention by helping employees feel valued and strengthens the service to meet the growing demand for frontline practitioners.
Michelle McDermott , Subject Area Lead for Community Justice within the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of Portsmouth, said: "We are proud to contribute to this important development in probation education. As a team committed to supporting the profession, it's encouraging to see probation service officers receiving the recognition and structured learning that reflects the vital role they play."
His Majesty's Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) said: "HMPPS is absolutely delighted to be working with the University of Portsmouth on the delivery of the Level 3 Probation Practitioner qualification. This collaboration marks a significant step forward for us.
"This program is designed to support our staff by providing a sustainable qualification for the future. It not only fosters staff development but also enhances our ability to deliver exceptional probation services.
"By investing in this qualification, we're ensuring that our staff are well-equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their roles. We're looking forward to seeing the positive impact this partnership will have on our organisation and the services we provide."
The Apprenticeship complements the University's existing trainee probation officer programme, run with the Ministry of Justice, and is open to individuals with Level 3 qualifications, such as A Levels. This important addition aims to broaden the talent pool, creating new career opportunities for people who may not have previously considered a role in probation.
