At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead safeguarding and attendance for vulnerable learners in an Alternative Provision setting.
- Company: Join Tradewind Recruitment, a top education recruitment agency in the UK.
- Benefits: Fixed-term contract with flexible holiday cover and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while ensuring their safety and well-being.
- Qualifications: Experience in safeguarding within education and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with potential for career growth in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) & Attendance Officer
Alternative Provision - Swadlincote
Fixed Term: 12 Months, 45 Weeks per Year
Derbyshire Support Staff Grade 10
Are you an experienced safeguarding professional with a strong background in education? Do you have the confidence and expertise to lead on safeguarding and attendance within an Alternative Provision setting? Tradewind Recruitment are working in partnership with an Alternative Provision in Swadlincote to recruit a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and Attendance Officer for a 12-month fixed-term contract. This is a vital role supporting some of the most vulnerable learners, ensuring safeguarding, attendance, and pupil welfare remain at the heart of the provision. This position is 45 weeks per year - term time plus an additional 6 weeks during school holidays, where you will be on-call for safeguarding matters. Holiday cover can be completed from home and does not require on-site attendance.
About the Role
As the DSL & Attendance Officer, you will take strategic and operational responsibility for safeguarding and attendance across the provision. You will work closely with senior leaders, external agencies, families, and pupils to ensure the highest standards of care, safety, and engagement.
Responsibilities
- Acting as the Designated Safeguarding Lead, with responsibility for all safeguarding and child protection matters.
- Leading safeguarding practice during Ofsted inspections and external reviews.
- Managing referrals to external agencies (Social Care, Early Help, Police, CAMHS, etc.).
- Maintaining accurate safeguarding records in line with statutory guidance.
- Monitoring, tracking, and improving pupil attendance, including working with families and agencies to reduce persistent absence.
- Supporting pupils facing barriers to attendance and engagement.
- Providing safeguarding advice, guidance, and training to staff.
- Ensuring safeguarding policies and procedures are up to date and compliant with Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE).
Requirements
- Significant experience in safeguarding, ideally as a DSL or Deputy DSL within an education setting.
- Strong understanding of statutory safeguarding guidance and multi-agency working.
- Experience working with vulnerable pupils, including those in Alternative Provision or SEN settings (highly desirable).
- Confidence leading safeguarding processes during Ofsted inspections.
- Excellent communication, organisation, and record-keeping skills.
- Ability to work independently and make professional judgements under pressure.
- An enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to obtain one).
About Tradewind Recruitment
Tradewind Recruitment is one of the UK's leading education recruitment agencies, specialising in matching skilled education professionals with rewarding roles across schools, academies, and alternative provisions. We pride ourselves on our honest, supportive approach and long-standing relationships with schools and trusts nationwide.
Contact Ben Moses for more information.
Designated Safeguarding Lead. Job in Newhall Education & Training Jobs employer: Tradewind Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Tradewind Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Designated Safeguarding Lead. Job in Newhall Education & Training Jobs
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those involved in safeguarding. They might know of opportunities that aren't advertised yet, and a personal recommendation can go a long way.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your safeguarding knowledge. Be ready to discuss real-life scenarios and how you would handle them. This shows you're not just book-smart but also practical and ready for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your experience with vulnerable pupils. Whether it's through case studies or examples from your past roles, make sure to highlight how you've made a difference in their lives. This is key for a DSL position!
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Designated Safeguarding Lead. Job in Newhall Education & Training Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in safeguarding and education. We want to see how your background aligns with the role of Designated Safeguarding Lead, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant skills!
Showcase Your Passion: Let us know why you’re passionate about safeguarding and supporting vulnerable learners. A personal touch can really make your application stand out, so share any experiences that fuel your commitment to this vital work.
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 without unnecessary fluff.
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’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Tradewind Recruitment
✨Know Your Safeguarding Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest safeguarding policies and procedures, especially those related to KCSIE. Be ready to discuss your experience with safeguarding cases and how you've handled them in the past.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a DSL, you'll need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully collaborated with families, external agencies, and staff to ensure pupil welfare and attendance.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Experience
Be prepared to talk about your leadership style and how you've led safeguarding practices in previous roles. Highlight any experiences during Ofsted inspections or similar reviews where you took charge.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that test your decision-making skills under pressure. Think about potential safeguarding situations and how you would respond, ensuring you prioritise pupil safety and well-being.