Overview
Probation officer roles are among the most challenging and rewarding positions in the public sector. You work directly with people who have committed offences, assessing risk, supporting rehabilitation, and coordinating with courts, social work, and housing. Employers want to see that you can handle difficult situations, work across agencies, and write clear, accurate assessments.
Aaron Campbell is a criminology graduate from Glasgow Caledonian University who completed a placement at HMP Barlinnie and worked part-time as a support worker at Turning Point Scotland. His resume is effective because it shows direct experience with offender support, risk assessment, and multi-agency working.
What Makes This Resume Work
Prison placement with direct offender contact. Working with 20 prisoners on pre-release planning shows Aaron has experience with the core work of probation: helping people transition from custody to the community. It also shows he can work safely in a challenging environment.
Risk assessment using the LS/CMI framework. Completing 15 risk assessment summaries using the standard tool shows Aaron already understands the methodology probation officers use. This is a specific technical skill that employers value highly.
Support work experience that builds credibility. Supporting 8 service users at Turning Point Scotland with housing, benefits, and health appointments shows Aaron has sustained experience with vulnerable adults, not just a one-off placement. It also demonstrates his ability to maintain case notes and flag safeguarding concerns.
Multi-agency meeting attendance. Being present at 5 multi-agency meetings shows Aaron understands how different services work together. Probation is inherently collaborative, and experience attending these meetings is valuable evidence of readiness for the role.
Key Takeaways
For probation officer applications, describe every type of offender contact you have had, the risk assessment tools you used, and the multi-agency meetings you attended. If you have worked in support services, describe your caseload, the types of support you provided, and any safeguarding actions you took. Name the frameworks you know (LS/CMI, OASys, etc.) and any relevant training. This is a profession where practical experience and resilience matter more than academic grades.
