Safeguarding Officer in Leeds

Safeguarding Officer in Leeds

Leeds Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Leeds City College

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Ensure student safety and wellbeing through expert safeguarding advice and training.
  • Company: Leeds City College, dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive environment.
  • Benefits: Generous annual leave, pension schemes, and professional development opportunities.
  • Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while promoting a culture of support and excellence.
  • Qualifications: Level 2 Safeguarding trained with experience in educational settings.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

We are looking for a new Safeguarding Officer (known as Stay Safe Officer in the Group) to join us at Leeds City College within the Sixth Form department. You will work closely with the curriculum-based department to ensure arrangements are in place and maintained to effectively safeguard our students and vulnerable adults.

We are seeking an individual who embraces a restorative approach and places student welfare and safeguarding at the heart of everything they do. Across all our campuses, we are committed to creating an environment where students and staff feel welcomed, valued, safe, and secure. Our safeguarding arrangements are robust and effective, with safeguarding officers responding promptly and appropriately to identify and mitigate risks. Our most recent Ofsted inspection recognised our personal development programmes as outstanding. As part of our team, you will help build on this success, contributing to a culture of vigilance, support, and excellence in safeguarding, while continuing to promote the wellbeing and development of all students. The role will be based at the Park Lane Campus, but occasional travel to other Leeds City College campuses will be required.

What You Will Do:

  • Provide specialist safeguarding advice, guidance, and training to pastoral, curriculum, and support staff.
  • Manage a caseload of students with safeguarding concerns, ensuring timely action, accurate recording, and appropriate safety plans.
  • Deliver both formal and informal supervision to designated safeguarding officers, including case discussions and documentation.
  • Plan, chair, and record safeguarding meetings, ensuring clear actions and effective case management.
  • Deliver safeguarding training across induction, staff development days, and ongoing professional development.
  • Liaise with external agencies and internal teams, contributing to risk assessments, support plans, and safeguarding monitoring systems.

About You:

  • Level 2 Safeguarding trained.
  • A recognised qualification in at least one area of expertise in safeguarding, health and care to a minimum of NVQ 3 or equivalent, or substantial experience.
  • Recent experience working as a designated safeguarding officer.
  • Experience of working with vulnerable groups in an educational setting.
  • Up to date knowledge and experience of a range of safeguarding issues.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, a good listener who is non-judgemental and able to be adaptable to the needs of staff and students.

Benefits:

  • Annual Leave: Curriculum and Management 44 days plus bank holidays; Curriculum support and business support 39 days plus bank holidays.
  • Pension Schemes: Teachers’ Pension Scheme, Local Government Pension Scheme, People’s Pension Scheme.
  • CPD Opportunities: Annual staff conference and two additional staff development days.
  • Qualifications: Inclusion of PGCE, Apprenticeships, Leadership and Management Courses.
  • Employee Wellbeing: Family Friendly Policies, discounted onsite spa and gym, travel and commuting discounts, flexible and hybrid working opportunities.

Safeguarding and Security Requirements:

All successful applicants will be required to complete mandatory pre‑employment checks which include an enhanced DBS check, online checks, and must have two satisfactory references. Please be aware that it is a criminal offence to apply for this post if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity in connection to children.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion:

We are committed to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in recruitment. All candidates are treated fairly, with respect, and equity. We do not accept unsolicited CVs or applications from agencies that have not been expressly instructed for this vacancy.

Safeguarding Officer in Leeds employer: Leeds City College

Leeds City College is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where staff and students feel valued and secure. With robust safeguarding measures in place and a commitment to professional development, employees benefit from extensive training opportunities, generous annual leave, and a focus on wellbeing through family-friendly policies and flexible working arrangements. Join us at the Park Lane Campus and contribute to our outstanding reputation for student welfare and personal development.

Leeds City College

Contact Details:

Leeds City College Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Safeguarding Officer in Leeds

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the education and safeguarding sectors. Attend events, join online forums, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can give you a recommendation.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for your interview by researching Leeds City College and its safeguarding policies. Show us that you understand their commitment to student welfare and how you can contribute to that culture. Tailor your responses to reflect their values and mission.

Tip Number 3

Practice your interview skills with a friend or mentor. Focus on articulating your experience with safeguarding and how you've handled challenging situations in the past. The more comfortable you are speaking about your expertise, the better you'll come across in the interview.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us that you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at Leeds City College. Good luck!

We think you need these skills to ace Safeguarding Officer in Leeds

Safeguarding Expertise
Interpersonal Skills
Case Management
Risk Assessment
Training Delivery
Communication Skills
Adaptability

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Safeguarding Officer. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.

Showcase Your Experience:When detailing your past roles, focus on your experience with safeguarding and working with vulnerable groups. We want to see how you've made a difference in previous positions, so share specific examples!

Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you're a great fit for the team.

Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the process smoother for everyone involved.

How to prepare for a job interview at Leeds City College

Know Your Safeguarding Stuff

Make sure you brush up on the latest safeguarding policies and practices. Familiarise yourself with the specific safeguarding issues relevant to the educational setting, as well as any recent changes in legislation. This will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also genuinely passionate about student welfare.

Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills

As a Safeguarding Officer, your ability to communicate effectively is crucial. Prepare examples of how you've successfully interacted with students, staff, and external agencies in the past. Highlight your listening skills and adaptability, as these are key traits for the role.

Prepare for Scenario Questions

Expect to be asked how you would handle specific safeguarding scenarios. Think through potential situations you might face and how you would respond. This will demonstrate your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, which are essential for managing safeguarding concerns.

Embrace the Restorative Approach

Since the role emphasises a restorative approach, be ready to discuss how you would implement this in practice. Share your thoughts on building relationships and fostering a supportive environment for students, as this aligns perfectly with the college's values.