Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about working and gaining experience at PBNI
Can I come to PBNI for work experience?
PBNI is unable to individually service requests for work experience or what are sometimes called ‘flexible learning days’. However, PBNI takes a small number of ‘Level 3’ Social Work degree students from the University of Ulster and Queen’s University Belfast from January to June annually for practice learning opportunities. These candidates are allocated by the Regional Allocation Practice Learning Panel each October.
What qualifications do you need to work as a Probation Officer?
To work as Probation Officer in Northern Ireland, you must have a Degree in Social Work and Entry requirements onto the Degree are usually 3 A levels in any subject (usually grades ‘BBB’ or above) and GCSE Maths and English (minimum of grade C). Equivalent qualifications such as Access courses or HNDs will normally be accepted. Applicants will also be interviewed to assess their potential to train to be a social worker at degree level. While it is not essential, having some relevant experience will allow you an opportunity to find out if social work is the right career choice for you. It will also give you some practical situations to help illustrate points in your application and subsequent interview. All applications for the Degree are made through the UCAS system (www.ucas.com). Applications are taken from mid-September to early January and can be made on line.
For further advice on careers in Social Work, visit the Northern Ireland Social Care Council (NISCC) at: www.niscc.info