This Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead post at Ark Pioneer Academy supports the DSL across the school's safeguarding and pastoral systems. The core of the work is acting as first point of contact for concerns, managing casework, liaising with external agencies and keeping compliant records. The post is full time on term-time-plus-10-days hours, and it sits at the centre of how pupils receive timely early help. An enhanced DBS check is required, and visa sponsorship is not available.
What the job involves
- Act as first point of contact for safeguarding concerns and referrals
- Lead on safeguarding casework and keep accurate, secure records
- Support the DSL in implementing statutory safeguarding duties
- Coordinate early help interventions and liaise with external agencies
- Contribute to multi‑agency meetings, reports and action plans
- Ensure compliance with Keeping Children Safe in Education and Ark safeguarding policies
- Ensure robust, compliant safeguarding systems and processes are in place
- Promote a culture of vigilance, professional curiosity and early intervention across the school
- Work with the DSL, senior leaders, pastoral teams and external agencies to maintain high safeguarding standards
Experience
- Prior safeguarding experience, ideally in a school or similar setting
- Safeguarding experience in social care, youth work or related sectors also considered
Skills & knowledge
- Strong understanding of child protection, early help and statutory guidance
- Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills
- High levels of organisation, discretion and professional judgement
- Confidence in handling sensitive information appropriately
- Ability to analyse information, identify risks and act swiftly
- Proactive, solutions‑focused and compassionate approach
Checks & eligibility
- Enhanced DBS check
- Disclosure of unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands or warnings before appointment
Nice to have
- Experience working in education
What’s offered
- Bespoke professional development through the Ark network
- Opportunities to progress into leadership roles across sister schools
- Shopping discounts
- Employee Assistance Programme
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Contact Details:
The Methodist Church in Britain Recruitment Team
