To help and promote the safeguarding of pupils by applying safeguarding policies and liaising with colleagues, local authorities, external agencies, and parents/carers as necessary.
This is a specialist SEMH (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health) school for boys aged 6 to 18. Pupils may have complex behavioural, emotional, and social needs, and the safeguarding environment requires a high level of vigilance, empathy, and professional collaboration.
Act as a point of contact for any safeguarding or child protection concerns, providing timely, relevant support and advice to safeguard pupils.
Work closely and collaboratively with the Designated Safeguarding Lead and other identified safeguarding staff.
Make timely external referrals to appropriate agencies, including the local authority, to ensure pupils are safeguarded and supported effectively.
Maintain up-to-date, accurate, and confidential records.
Develop and sustain strong working relationships across the organisation.
Adhere to and promote all relevant policies, particularly those related to safeguarding, confidentiality, and cyber security.
Work flexibly to meet organisational needs, including outside of normal working hours when necessary.
Support the work of the Designated Safeguarding Lead.
Be an identified and approachable member of staff for colleagues to report safeguarding concerns.
Engage with pupils and their parents/carers in an honest and compassionate manner.
Ensure safeguarding is consistently prioritised and that the best interests of the child remain paramount.
Collaborate and consult with other safeguarding staff and escalate concerns appropriately.
Ensure safeguarding records are regularly updated and accurately maintained, allowing relevant staff to access necessary information.
Note: This is not an exhaustive list. The job holder is expected to be flexible and carry out reasonable tasks as requested.
Previous experience or working knowledge of safeguarding in a child-centred setting such as education, child services, social services, or child protection is desirable.
Experience working in an SEMH or alternative provision environment is highly advantageous.
Must have completed safeguarding training within the past 12 months.
Excellent communication skills (verbal and written).
Intermediate IT skills.
Ability to handle challenging, difficult, and sensitive conversations effectively.
Self-motivated
Resilient
Adaptable
Reliable
Conscientious
Active listener
Maintains confidentiality
Temp-to-perm or permanent contracts available, depending on candidate preference and experience.
Interviews to take place ASAP. Early applications are strongly encouraged due to the urgent need for this role.
Apply for Safeguarding Officer
