Oxford man who taught in Africa urges career changers to consider probation work

Sean Logan, 56, from Oxford, says that’s exactly what drew him to Community Payback after a varied career that even included lecturing in West Africa.

Sean now works as a Community Payback Supervisor in Oxfordshire overseeing unpaid work projects that help improve local spaces while supporting offenders to turn their lives around.

Before joining probation, Sean’s career took him through a wide range of roles including bricklaying, roofing and prison work. His most unusual chapter came while travelling across Africa by motorbike. He decided to settle in Gambia and became a college lecturer advising doctors and nurses.

After returning to Oxford, Sean joined the probation service and has now worked in the role for nearly a decade.

He said:

“I love working in Community Payback. It’s the right balance for me. I enjoy the physical nature of the job and having real contact time with the people I’m working with. You’re not sitting in an office - I’d rather be digging a ditch alongside someone and getting the graft in as well.”

Sean says the hands-on nature of the work allows for more meaningful conversations and personal reflection.

“In Community Payback, you get the chance to really talk - properly talk. You learn more about the people you’re working with, but you also learn a lot about yourself.

Sean has worked on a range of Community Payback projects across Oxfordshire including schemes delivered in partnership with local organisations such as the Canal and River Trust.

He adds:

“The people on probation feel a real sense of achievement - they’ve done a hard day’s graft and can actually see the difference they’ve made to somewhere people use every day.”

Sean believes Community Payback roles attract people from all backgrounds and are suited to those looking for a meaningful career change.

“You have to be kind, calm and curious. I always say hire the character and teach the skills later.”

Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy said:

“People across the country are looking for more than just a pay packet - they want purpose. In our prisons and probation service, that purpose is clear: helping people rebuild their lives and making our communities safer.

“Every day, prison and probation officers perform some of the most vital – and often most overlooked work in Britain. They give people a second chance and help stop others becoming victims in the first place.

“So if you’re searching for a new direction this year, I’d urge you to consider one of these extraordinary careers. You’ll be making a real difference where it matters most.”

The Probation Service is recruiting people across Oxfordshire. Those who would like to take the first step towards a rewarding new career can apply or find out more by visiting here.