At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead safeguarding efforts to protect vulnerable students with complex needs.
- Company: Join a specialist secondary SEN school in Worthing dedicated to student welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy ongoing professional development and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of young people while working in a warm, inclusive setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in safeguarding or pastoral care, with strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Position starts in September 2025; full-time, term-time plus 2 weeks.
The predicted salary is between 32597 - 35412 £ per year.
Safeguarding Officer – Secondary SEN School | Worthing Are you an experienced safeguarding professional with a passion for protecting vulnerable young people? A specialist secondary SEN school in Worthing is seeking a dedicated Safeguarding Officer to join their team from September 2025. Location: Worthing, West Sussex Start Date: September 2025 Hours: Full-time, term-time plus 2 weeks Salary: £32,597 – £35,412 (based on experience and qualifications) About the Role: You will take the lead on all safeguarding matters across the school, ensuring that robust procedures are in place and followed to protect students with a range of complex needs, including autism, ADHD, SEMH and other additional learning needs. Key Responsibilities: * Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) or Deputy DSL * Manage referrals, disclosures, and safeguarding concerns * Liaise with external agencies, including social care and mental health services * Keep accurate and confidential safeguarding records (e.g. CPOMS) * Deliver safeguarding training and guidance to staff * Promote a culture of safety, awareness, and vigilance across the school * Support students and families through challenging circumstances What We’re Looking For: * Absolute commitment to the welfare of the students * Previous experience in safeguarding, pastoral care, or inclusion (preferably in SEN or secondary settings) * DSL certification (or willingness to complete) * Excellent knowledge of safeguarding legislation and guidance (KCSIE, Working Together to Safeguard Children) * Strong communication, record-keeping and interpersonal skills * Calm, empathetic, and confident in dealing with sensitive situations Why Join This School? * Warm, supportive and specialist environment * Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable young people * Ongoing CPD and career development * Part of a passionate and dedicated team Interested in making an impact? Contact Sarah at Masterclass Education today: (phone number removed) Be the difference that helps keep every child safe
Safeguarding Officer – Secondary SEN School | Worthing employer: Master Class Education
Contact Detail:
Master Class Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Safeguarding Officer – Secondary SEN School | Worthing
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific safeguarding policies and procedures used in SEN schools. Understanding the unique challenges faced by students with additional needs will help you demonstrate your commitment and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the safeguarding field, especially those working in SEN settings. Attend relevant workshops or seminars to build connections and gain insights that could be beneficial during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss real-life scenarios where you've successfully managed safeguarding issues. Being able to articulate your experience with specific examples will showcase your expertise and problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the school’s ethos and values, particularly regarding safeguarding. Tailoring your approach to align with their mission will show that you are genuinely interested in contributing to their community.
We think you need these skills to ace Safeguarding Officer – Secondary SEN School | Worthing
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the key responsibilities and requirements for the Safeguarding Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in safeguarding and working with vulnerable young people.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your previous experience in safeguarding, pastoral care, or inclusion, especially in SEN or secondary settings. Use specific examples to demonstrate your commitment to student welfare and your ability to handle sensitive situations.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to mention your DSL certification (or willingness to complete it) and your knowledge of safeguarding legislation. Highlight your strong communication and interpersonal skills, as these are crucial for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a personalised cover letter that reflects your passion for safeguarding and your desire to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable young people. Address how you can contribute to the school's culture of safety and support for students and families.
How to prepare for a job interview at Master Class Education
✨Show Your Passion for Safeguarding
Make sure to express your genuine passion for protecting vulnerable young people during the interview. Share personal experiences or motivations that led you to pursue a career in safeguarding, as this will resonate with the interviewers.
✨Demonstrate Knowledge of Legislation
Familiarise yourself with key safeguarding legislation and guidance, such as KCSIE and Working Together to Safeguard Children. Be prepared to discuss how these frameworks influence your approach to safeguarding in a school setting.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your decision-making skills in sensitive situations. Think through potential safeguarding scenarios and how you would handle them, highlighting your calmness and empathy.
✨Highlight Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is crucial in safeguarding roles. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully liaised with external agencies or trained staff in the past, showcasing your interpersonal skills and ability to foster a culture of safety.