Safeguarding Officer (Deputy DSL)

About this role

The St Bart's Multi Academy Trust, in partnership with Governors, staff and children of Abbey Hill Academy and College are seeking to appoint a highly motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our hard working and committed team.

At Abbey Hill Academy and College our children come first. High expectations, mutual trust and respect are underpinned by a warm, supportive ethos. In the best interests of our children we work very closely with our partner Academies. The successful candidate will be working alongside a team of caring, enthusiastic, dedicated staff, who are well-supported by their Senior Leadership Team.

Job Purpose

To provide comprehensive safeguarding support to pupils, working closely with the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL). This includes managing a caseload of referrals, coordinating interventions, and acting as Deputy DSL in the DSL's absence. The role involves working with pupils, families, and external agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of all pupils.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Safeguarding Officer

• Receive and coordinate referrals: Manage incoming safeguarding concerns, ensuring appropriate action is taken and services are reviewed. This includes making referral to social care and other relevant agencies
• Support vulnerable pupils: Work with staff to identify and support the needs of vulnerable pupils and their families. Including pupils with SEND, such as those with communication difficulties or emotional and behavioural challenges
• Administrative support: Provide efficient administrative support to the DSL, maintaining accurate and confidential records.
• Caseload management: Maintain a caseload of safeguarding referrals, reviewing progress, and providing feedback to the safeguarding team.
• Liaison with agencies: Liaise with external agencies, including social care, police, therapists, and health services, ensuring they have access to necessary information.
• Support staff: Act as a source of support for staff who make referrals or report concerns.
• Attend meetings: Participate in safeguarding meetings, case conferences, strategy meetings, core group meetings, professional discussions, and LAC meetings. Includes keeping / organising written records and notes of meetings as required
• Early Help and intervention: Coordinate Early Help Assessments and interventions, working with families and external agencies.
• Record keeping: Maintain accurate and confidential records of all safeguarding concerns, interventions, and outcomes.
• Parent support: Work with parents to support their child's well-being and development, providing information and guidance.
• Promote safeguarding: Raise awareness of safeguarding issues among staff, students, and parents.
• Compliance: Comply with a wide range of relevant legislation, local and national guidance and processes
• Policy and procedures: Implementation of the school's safeguarding policies and procedures.

Deputy DSL

• Deputise for the DSL: Assume the DSL's responsibilities in their absence, including managing referrals, coordinating interventions, and liaising with external agencies.
• Provide expert advice: Offer safeguarding advice and guidance to staff, students, and parents.
• Stay up-to-date: Keep abreast of current safeguarding legislation, guidance, and best practices.
• Contribute to training: Assist in the delivery of safeguarding training to staff, volunteers and governor
• Prevent Duty: Understand and support the school's Prevent Duty, providing advice to staff on preventing radicalisation

The role will involve travel to off-site venues and a flexible approach to working hours

Our Offer To You

When you join the St Bart’s family, you’re joining a Trust that truly values it’s people. We’re proud to live by our PEACE values- Passion, Encouragement, Ambition, Collaboration, and Enjoyment, which are at the heart of everything we do.

Here’s what you can expect from us:
A welcoming, supportive culture where everyone is respected, included and valued for who they are.
Health and wellbeing support -including access to mental health resources, wellbeing days, discounted fitness memberships and staff discounts via Kaarp Benefits.
Opportunities to grow- we’re passionate about development, with access to training, leadership pathways and mentoring to help you reach your goals.
Recognition and rewards -from staff awards to everyday appreciation, your hard work is seen and celebrated.
Financial peace of mind- competitive pay, pension schemes through LGPS or Teachers’ Pensions, and travel benefits.
Your voice matters- regular feedback opportunities, engagement surveys and open conversations help shape how we grow together.

And above all, you’ll be part of something amazing - making a real difference to the lives of our brilliant young people every single day.

Abbey Hill Academy & College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people/vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment"

This position is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure check under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. Further details regarding this check are available from schools or by visiting www.crb.gov.uk

If you are interested in applying and require further information please call 01782 355849 or email recruitment@abbeyhill.sbmat.org

More information on the school including our Prospectus and Safeguarding Policy can be found on our website https://www.abbeyhillschool.co.uk/