Child Protection Officer

City of Derby Academy; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Derby Academy is seeking a compassionate Child Protection Officer to lead safeguarding practice, strengthen systems, and drive continuous improvement across our schools. Working with the Designated Safeguarding Lead, you will identify concerns, manage complex cases, and ensure all safeguarding records are accurate, up-to-date, and acted upon.

You will collaborate with families, external agencies, and professionals, contributing to a Trust-wide approach and benefiting from high-quality

Qualifications

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to stay calm and professional in sensitive situations.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding procedures and multi‑agency working.
• Highly organised with a proactive approach to recording and case management.

Responsibilities

• Act as a key member of the safeguarding team.
• Identify, assess, and respond to safeguarding and welfare concerns.
• Manage and support complex and sensitive safeguarding cases.
• Work closely with families, external agencies, and professionals.
• Ensure all safeguarding concerns are recorded, tracked, and acted upon.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Decision making

Attention to detail

Job description

Initially based at City of Derby Academy, you will take a lead role in strengthening safeguarding practice, systems, and compliance, working closely with school leaders to embed consistency and drive continuous improvement.

Working alongside the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), you will:

• Act as a key member of the safeguarding team
• Identify, assess, and respond to safeguarding and welfare concerns
• Manage and support complex and sensitive safeguarding cases
• Work closely with families, external agencies, and professionals
• Ensure all safeguarding concerns are recorded, tracked, and acted upon

As the progresses, you will contribute to a Trust-wide safeguarding approach, supporting schools to deliver high-quality, consistent, and effective practice across all settings.

Who We're Looking For

We are seeking a compassionate, dedicated, and proactive Child Protection Officer with a strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. You will demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to remain calm, professional, and resilient when managing sensitive and complex situations.

You will bring a secure understanding of child protection legislation, safeguarding procedures, and effective multi‑agency working, alongside the confidence to apply this knowledge in practice. Highly organised and thoughtful in your approach, you will be able to make sound, informed decisions and maintain accurate, high-quality records. Above all, you will be motivated by a genuine passion for creating safe, inclusive environments where every child can succeed and flourish.

Why us?

As part of our Trust, you’ll benefit from:

• A supportive network of professionals who share your commitment to excellence
• High-quality professional development and career progression opportunities
• A caring, inclusive organisation that values staff wellbeing and work-life balance
• Access to a range of employee benefits designed to promote health and wellbeing

This is your chance to be part of something special. Help us shape the future and make a lasting impact.