You shouldn't need to jump, just be moving backwards yourself as you push the bar off forwards. I don't think front squats are inherently more or less safe tha

You shouldn't need to jump, just be moving backwards yourself as you push the bar off forwards. I don't think front squats are inherently more or less safe than back squats; both are safe if performed with good form. I understand the worry about heavy weights. If possible, you should try to find a gym that will let you drop weights (one mark of a good gym). Then you can practice to your heart's content.