University of Portsmouth awarded 10-year contract to educate thousands of trainee probation officers

The University of Portsmouth’s School of Criminology and Criminal Justice has been awarded a new 10-year contract to deliver the academic course for the Professional Qualification in Probation (PQiP). 

The new contract builds on the University’s 25-year relationship with the Ministry of Justice, during which it has delivered professional education for probation officers. 

Michelle McDermott, Associate Professor of Probation Education and Knowledge Exchange, School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of Portsmouth, said: “We are delighted to continue our long-standing partnership with the Ministry of Justice and to play such an important role in educating the next generation of probation officers. 

“Probation officers carry out a vital role in protecting the public and supporting people to move away from crime. Our approach bridges evidence-based and research-informed teaching with real-world probation practice, ensuring trainees can apply their learning effectively and develop the knowledge, skills and professional judgement needed to make a meaningful difference to the communities they serve.” 

The first cohort under the new contract will begin their studies in March 2027, with two groups expected to start each year. 

More than 200 trainee probation officers across the South West, South Central, East of England, and Kent, Surrey and Sussex regions are expected to take part in the University’s remote learning programme during the first year. 

The PQiP combines vocational training with higher education and is the recognised qualification required to become a probation officer in England and Wales. It supports trainees in developing the practical and academic skills needed for the role. 

During their training students work full time as front line Probation Service Officers gaining practical experience including compiling reports. They also undertake placements in settings including courts and prisons.

Professor Paul Smith, Head of the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University, said: “This 10-year contract is a significant milestone for our School of Criminology and Criminal Justice and reflects the strength of our expertise in professional criminal justice education. 

“By combining online academic learning with hands-on experience in probation services, we can support trainees to develop both the theoretical understanding and practical skills they need to succeed in this demanding profession.” 

The new contract comes as the Government announces plans to expand the probation service, including the investment £700 million in probation by 2028/29. 

A Ministry of Justice spokesperson said: “Following a competitive and comprehensive procurement process, the Probation Service is very pleased to once again to be working with the University of Portsmouth, to deliver the Community Justice Level 6 qualification for trainee probation officers in their contracted lot area. 

“The course is a significant part of the Professional Qualification in Probation that His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service sponsors and delivers, which is the recognised statutory qualification required to work as a Probation Officer in England and Wales.” 

The University’s work in probation forms part of a wider programme of professional criminal justice education delivered by the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice. As part of the Police Education Consortium, the School of Criminology and Criminal Justice also delivers police constable degree apprenticeships in partnership with five police forces: the Metropolitan Police, Surrey Police, Sussex Police, Thames Valley Police and Hampshire Police.  

Together, this breadth of professional education cements the University of Portsmouth as a leading provider of criminal justice education in the UK, bringing academic expertise and professional practice together to train the next generation of criminal justice professionals.