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- Tasks: Lead safeguarding efforts and support staff in promoting student welfare.
- Company: The Basildon Academies, a forward-thinking educational institution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while leading safeguarding initiatives.
- Qualifications: Strong safeguarding knowledge and experience in child protection.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to fostering inclusive education.
The predicted salary is between 53000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Basildon Academies are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect staff to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to DBS and health checks.
We currently have an exciting opportunity for an outstanding candidate to join our Senior Leadership Team as Senior Student Development Leader with the remit of Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
Salary: Academy Pay Scale Band 8 FTE £53,071 - £60,252 (Actual starting salary £49,805 with performance-based increments available)
Working weeks: 39 weeks + 4 (Term Time + inset + twilight) and Parent/Open evening as required
Working Hours: 37 hours per week (08:00-16:00 Mon-Thurs and 08:00 - 15:30 Fri)
The Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) will take lead responsibility for safeguarding and child protection across the school, working closely with senior leaders and external agencies to ensure safeguarding is effective, robust, and embedded within school culture.
The SSDL Designated Safeguarding Lead is responsible for:
- Promoting the welfare of children across our school
- Managing referrals relating to suspected abuse, neglect, radicalisation, criminal activity or concerns about staff conduct
- Acting as a source of advice, expertise and support for all staff on safeguarding matters
- Supporting and guiding staff through referral processes and safeguarding decision-making
- Maintaining accurate, confidential safeguarding records (CPOMS)
- Supporting positive educational outcomes for vulnerable pupils
- Ensuring safeguarding policies, procedures and training are up-to-date
We are looking for someone who is committed, resilient and child-centred, with strong safeguarding knowledge and the confidence to work collaboratively with staff and external professionals.
We are an aspirational academy operating across two sites. The Lower Academy specialises in the teaching of our Key Stage 3 students, whilst the Upper Academy specialises in teaching Key Stage 4 and 5. We pride ourselves on being a truly inclusive academy and this is actively underpinned by our motto 'Aspire Believe Achieve'.
Closing Date: Friday 27th February 2026
Interviews: W/C 2nd March
Position Available: April 2026
If you would like to be considered for this opportunity, please download and complete our application form and on a separate document, please demonstrate how your knowledge, skills and experience meet the Key Responsibilities criteria on the job description (1500 words maximum). Please return both documents to our Recruitment Coordinator, Olivia Faustino.
We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications or are able to fill the position faster than originally anticipated.
Information about the School: The Basildon Academies is focused upon developing the whole child; our curriculum has been developed to enable our students to develop their knowledge, understanding and skills so that they will become lifelong learners. This includes opportunities for linguistic, mathematical, scientific, technical, human, social, physical and artistic learning so that students make progress in a wide range of subjects.
We set high expectations of all our students and this, in turn, ensures we create a positive climate for learning in which every student can reach their full potential. Our Academy is a calm, orderly and purposeful environment where students enjoy their learning, make good progress and feel safe.
Our Sixth Form is a major part of the academy with the structure modelling itself on developing independent learning skills like those seen in universities which allows students to continue their studies in their specialist subject areas. Students are very much encouraged to become mature adults being engaged in many aspects of the life of the academy which further develops those much needed skills to go on into university or the world of work.
All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.
Senior Student Development leader (DSL) in Basildon employer: The Basildon Academies, Basildon
Contact Detail:
The Basildon Academies, Basildon Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Student Development leader (DSL) in Basildon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in education, especially those who are already in leadership roles. They might have insider info on the position or even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s culture and values. Make sure you can articulate how your experience aligns with their commitment to safeguarding and student development.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for student welfare during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've positively impacted students' lives and how you plan to continue that at The Basildon Academies.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Student Development leader (DSL) in Basildon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Safeguarding: When writing your application, make sure to highlight your commitment to safeguarding and child welfare. We want to see how your experiences align with our values and how you can contribute to creating a safe environment for our students.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your responses to the specific responsibilities outlined in the job description. We’re looking for candidates who understand the role of a Designated Safeguarding Lead and can demonstrate relevant skills and experiences.
Be Clear and Concise: While you have a maximum of 1500 words to showcase your knowledge and skills, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and structure your application logically so we can easily follow your thought process and see how you meet our criteria.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly and helps us keep track of all applications. Plus, you’ll find all the necessary forms and guidelines there!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Basildon Academies, Basildon
✨Know Your Safeguarding Stuff
As a Senior Student Development Leader, you'll need to demonstrate a solid understanding of safeguarding policies and procedures. Brush up on current legislation and best practices, and be ready to discuss how you've implemented these in previous roles.
✨Show Your Child-Centred Approach
The role is all about promoting the welfare of children, so be prepared to share specific examples of how you've put students' needs first in your past experiences. Highlight any initiatives you've led that have positively impacted student wellbeing.
✨Collaborate Like a Pro
This position requires working closely with staff and external agencies. Think of times when you've successfully collaborated with others to achieve a common goal. Be ready to explain your approach to teamwork and how you handle differing opinions.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your decision-making skills in safeguarding situations. Practice articulating your thought process and the steps you would take in hypothetical scenarios to ensure the safety and wellbeing of students.
