At a Glance
- Tasks: Ensure the safety and wellbeing of students in a supportive school environment.
- Company: St. Mary's Catholic Academy, a respected institution in Blackpool.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time hours, and a supportive community.
- Other info: Fixed-term contract with potential for growth in a caring school community.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a nurturing environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in safeguarding and a passion for child welfare.
The predicted salary is between 31377 - 33783 £ per year.
Thank you for considering St. Mary's Catholic Academy for the next stage in your career. We are seeking to appoint a Safeguarding Officer. This will be a one-year fixed term contract to cover maternity leave. St Mary's is a highly regarded oversubscribed Catholic Academy in Blackpool in the Diocese of Lancaster. The school is very much a Catholic family where everyone works together to support and challenge one another to be the best they can be.
Please refer to the application pack for the person specification, job description and further details.
All posts are subject to:
- DBS
- Medical clearance
- Verification of qualifications and National Insurance number
- Two references including a judgement about suitability to work with children
- A member of the interview panel will be trained in implementing Child Protection procedures
- In line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025, online search will be carried out
- For teaching positions, barred list checks and prohibition from teaching checks will be carried out
- For leadership positions, section 128 checks will be performed
Closing and Interview Dates:
- Closing date for applications: Monday 22nd June 2026 - midday
- Shortlisting date: Tuesday 23rd June 2026
- Interview date: Thursday 25th June 2026
Post Details:
- Grade: NJC pay Grade G - scale point range 25 to 28
- Full time equivalent salary: £36,363.00 to £39,152.00 (pay award pending)
- Actual salary: £31,377.00 to £33,783.00
- Contract: Fixed Term to cover maternity leave to 31/8/2027 or until the substantive postholder returns
- Hours: 37 per week, term time only plus 5 days
- Start Date: 1st September 2026
Safeguarding Officer employer: St Mary's Catholic Academy
St. Mary's Catholic Academy is an exceptional employer, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where staff are encouraged to grow and thrive. Located in the heart of Blackpool, our school prioritises the well-being of both students and employees, offering professional development opportunities and a strong sense of community. Join us in making a meaningful impact in the lives of our students while working alongside dedicated colleagues who share a commitment to excellence in education.
Contact Details:
St Mary's Catholic Academy Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Safeguarding Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in education or safeguarding. Let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities like the Safeguarding Officer role at St. Mary's. You never know who might have the inside scoop!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching St. Mary's Catholic Academy. Understand their values and how they approach safeguarding. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions related to safeguarding. Think about scenarios you've faced and how you handled them. Being able to share real-life examples will make you stand out as a candidate who knows their stuff.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're tech-savvy and ready to embrace the digital age in your new role.
We think you need these skills to ace Safeguarding Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, make sure to read through the job description and person specification thoroughly. We want to see how your skills and experiences align with what St. Mary's is looking for, so take notes on key points that resonate with you.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We recommend tailoring your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in safeguarding and working with children. Show us why you’re the perfect fit for this role at St. Mary's.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your qualifications and experiences. Avoid fluff and focus on what makes you stand out!
Apply Through Our Website:Finally, don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary details and resources to help you along the way.
How to prepare for a job interview at St Mary's Catholic Academy
✨Know Your Safeguarding Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest safeguarding policies and procedures, especially those relevant to schools. Familiarise yourself with the Keeping Children Safe in Education guidelines, as this will show your commitment to child protection during the interview.
✨Show Your Passion for Child Welfare
During the interview, express your genuine passion for safeguarding children. Share personal experiences or examples from previous roles where you made a positive impact on child safety. This will help the panel see that you truly care about the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your decision-making skills in safeguarding situations. Think of specific examples where you had to handle sensitive issues, and be ready to discuss how you approached them and what the outcomes were.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the school's safeguarding policies or the support available for staff. This shows that you’re not only interested in the role but also in how you can contribute to the school’s safeguarding culture.
