Designated Safeguarding Lead

Secondary SEN School | Derby Full-Time | 12-Week Temp-to-Perm Opportunity

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) to join a well-established Secondary Special Educational Needs (SEN) School in Derby.

This is a full-time position, initially offered on a 12-week temporary basis, with the opportunity to secure a permanent contract directly with the school following a successful placement.

The Role

The successful candidate will lead on all aspects of safeguarding and child protection across the school, ensuring the highest standards of care and support for vulnerable young people. Working closely with the Senior Leadership Team, staff, families, and external agencies, you will play a key role in promoting a strong safeguarding culture and ensuring compliance with current safeguarding legislation and guidance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead safeguarding and child protection practice across the school.
• Manage and maintain accurate safeguarding records and reporting systems.
• Act as the main point of contact for safeguarding concerns.
• Liaise effectively with external agencies, including Social Care, Police, Early Help and Local Authority teams.
• Provide advice, guidance and support to staff on safeguarding matters.
• Lead referrals, investigations and multi-agency meetings where required.
• Deliver safeguarding training and promote best practice throughout the school.
• Ensure all safeguarding policies and procedures are up to date and compliant with statutory requirements.

Candidate Requirements

Essential:

• Previous experience working as a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL).
• Strong working knowledge of safeguarding legislation and guidance, including Keeping Children Safe in Education.
• Experience handling complex safeguarding cases and working within multi-agency frameworks.
• Excellent communication, organisational and record-keeping skills.
• Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, staff and external professionals.

Desirable:

• Previous experience within an SEN school or specialist educational setting.
• Understanding of the additional safeguarding considerations associated with children and young people with SEND.
• Relevant safeguarding qualifications and training.

What's on Offer?

• Full-time opportunity within a specialist secondary setting.
• Initial 12-week temporary assignment with a view to becoming permanent.
• Supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of young people with additional needs.
• Competitive salary dependent on experience.