Designated Safe Guarding Lead

SENDirect; London; Remote; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

SENDirect seeks an experienced Designated Safeguarding Lead to oversee safeguarding initiatives within a specialist education environment. This pivotal role involves leading safeguarding policies and ensuring compliance, while working closely with a dedicated team to support vulnerable learners. Candidates should possess robust leadership skills and a commitment to child welfare.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Designated Safeguarding Lead or Deputy DSL.
• Strong understanding of KCSIE and safeguarding frameworks.
• Ability to manage sensitive cases with professionalism.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage safeguarding policies and procedures.
• Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead per statutory guidance.
• Provide advice and training to staff on safeguarding.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Decision-making

Education

Advanced safeguarding qualifications

Job description

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[This is a remote working position] Are you a highly experienced safeguarding professional ready to lead in a specialist education environment? Our client is seeking an exceptional Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) to join their team on a full-time, permanent basis from September 2025.

Our client works with vulnerable and high-need learners in an Alternative Provision (AP) setting, offering bespoke support outside of traditional school environments. As DSL, you will take strategic and operational responsibility for safeguarding and child protection across the provision, ensuring the highest standards of practice and compliance.

This is a pivotal leadership role for an individual who is calm under pressure, skilled in managing complex safeguarding issues, and passionate about improving the lives of vulnerable children and young people.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage all safeguarding and child protection policies and procedures

Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead in line with statutory guidance and best practice

Work closely with the senior leadership team to embed a safeguarding-first culture

Provide advice and training to staff regarding safeguarding matters

Liaise with external agencies including social care, health, and police

Oversee the management of safeguarding records and reporting

Respond swiftly and effectively to disclosures and safeguarding concerns

Contribute to risk assessments and safety planning for individual learners

Qualifications and Experience

Proven experience as a Designated Safeguarding Lead or Deputy DSL in an education or youth setting

Strong understanding of KCSIE (Keeping Children Safe in Education), statutory guidance, and safeguarding frameworks

Excellent communication, leadership, and decision-making skills

Experience working with high-need or vulnerable learners is highly desirable

Up-to-date safeguarding qualifications and advanced training

Ability to manage sensitive and complex cases with professionalism and discretion

A commitment to the welfare and protection of children and young people

SENDirect is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

All applicants must have the right to work in the UK and will be subject to enhanced DBS and reference checks. Sponsorship is not available.

If you're ready to lead safeguarding with compassion and rigour, apply today.

Not quite the right fit? Reach out to Karla to explore other current leadership roles in the region.