Safeguarding Officer in Langport

Huish Episcopi Academy is a large, non-selective, mixed secondary school for pupils aged 11-18. The school is very much at the heart of the Somerset Levels, with a catchment area over 200 sq. miles and community partnership with 11 local primary schools. The school has always been conscious of the contrast between the smaller local primary schools and the bustling school environment of a large secondary, so transition is an important part of our approach.

At Huish, we offer the full national curriculum with opportunities for our pupils to engage in a broad range of additional activities in sports, music, and the creative arts. It is our aim to develop rounded individuals who are not only academically successful, but who also have opportunities to develop other key skills; such as leadership, teamwork, and communication, which will give them the edge when it comes to future challenges. The school has a comprehensive careers offer, and pupils receive useful career advice. Our sixth form provides pupils with aspirational courses that allows them to pursue university places or employment after school.

Huish Episcopi Academy is part of United Learning, a large, and growing, group of schools aiming to offer a life-changing education to children and young people across England. United Learning is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All positions are subject to an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring check from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and shortlisted candidates will be subject to an online check.

We always appoint on merit, and we are open to discussing flexible working options.

At Huish Episcopi Academy, we are committed to ensuring every student feels safe, supported and able to thrive. We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Safeguarding Officer to join our pastoral team and play a key role in promoting the welfare, wellbeing and protection of our students.

Working closely with the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), Heads of Year, Attendance Officer and wider pastoral team, you will coordinate safeguarding support for vulnerable students, manage safeguarding concerns and referrals, and work with families and external agencies to secure positive outcomes for young people. This is a rewarding and varied role requiring excellent communication, sound professional judgement and a commitment to ensuring that every child receives the support they need to succeed.

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience of managing safeguarding concerns within an educational, social care or children's services environment.
• Has experience of working with external agencies and multi-agency safeguarding processes.
• Can build positive relationships with students, families, colleagues and external professionals.
• Has excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Can identify risks, analyse information and coordinate effective support for vulnerable students.
• Is resilient, professional and able to remain calm when dealing with sensitive and complex situations.
• Shares our commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and improving outcomes for all young people.

We can offer:

• The opportunity to make a genuine difference to the lives of young people.
• A supportive and collaborative pastoral team.
• High-quality professional development and training opportunities.
• Excellent family-friendly policies.
• Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme.
• The opportunity to work within United Learning, one of the UK's leading academy trusts.

Huish Episcopi Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be subject to appropriate pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check.