Benefits
- A free Simply Health plan supporting your physical and mental wellbeing.
- Visible, supportive senior leaders who champion your success.
- Woodfield Wonders of the Week - celebrating staff achievements.
- Strong career progression pathways and regular CPD opportunities.
- A caring staff team and a welcoming staff room that acts as the heart of our wellbeing culture.
- A social, celebratory environment where friendships flourish.
- A genuine sense of belonging under the #onewoodfield ethos.
Our beliefs and culture include:
- Stripping away the unnecessary and focusing on what matters.
- Open, engaged communication where staff can shape improvements.
- No expectation to work beyond contracted hours or answer emails out of hours.
- Prioritising mental health and wellbeing.
- A strong pastoral team and effective behaviour management system.
- Reviewing and refining systems annually - if something new is introduced, something old is removed.
Further details about the role
Woodfield Academy, Redditch | Permanent | Middle School (Years 5-8)
Woodfield Academy is seeking an experienced and committed Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) to join our strong pastoral and safeguarding team. Working under the leadership of our Assistant Headteacher (DSL), you will play a key role in safeguarding, child protection and supporting vulnerable pupils across the school. This varied role includes:
Responsibilities
- Leading safeguarding responsibilities when the DSL is teaching
- Conducting investigations and maintaining accurate records
- Working directly with pupils during moments of difficulty
- Liaising with external agencies and attending multi-agency meetings
- Training staff and supporting behaviour and pastoral systems
- Have good organisation and administrative skills
Requirements
- Have substantial experience in safeguarding and child protection work, including direct work with children and families
- Have in-depth knowledge of Keeping Children Safe in Education (2026) and safeguarding legislation
- Be experienced in working with external agencies, including social care, police and health services
- Hold a high level of professionalism and professional courtesy at all times
- Be punctual and reliable
- Be resilient to information which may be disturbing or upsetting, We are looking for someone with extensive safeguarding knowledge, strong organisational skills, and a warm, child-centred approach. You will be resilient, calm, flexible and able to work both independently and as part of a caring team.
This post is subject to an Enhanced DBS check and criminal background check via the disclosure procedures. Also as per The Department for Education Statutory guidance, in accordance with the "Keeping Children Safe in Education" legislation latest version that came into effect on 1st September 2022, shortlisted candidates will be subject to an online search as part of our due diligence. Woodfield Academy is committed to the protection, safety and welfare of its pupils and staff and we aim for the highest standards in safeguarding procedures. We expect all staff and volunteers to share and promote this commitment.