Safeguarding Lead (DSL Level) – Secondary School, Reading
Immediate start | 2 days per week (8:00am–4:00pm)
A friendly and supportive secondary school in Reading is looking to appoint an experienced Safeguarding Lead to manage day-to-day safeguarding and child protection across the school.
The successful applicant will have strong UK school experience, a thorough understanding of safeguarding processes, and the confidence to take the lead on safeguarding matters within a school setting.
The Role
Working closely with the Senior Leadership Team at DSL level, you will play a key role in ensuring all students feel safe, supported, and able to succeed. Responsibilities include:
*Leading daily safeguarding operations across the school
*Acting as the duty Safeguarding Lead on a rota basis
*Contributing to safeguarding strategy, casework, and multi-agency meetings
*Supporting students directly while advising staff on safeguarding concerns
*Liaising with external agencies such as social care, the local authority, and the police
This role requires sound judgement, excellent communication skills, and the ability to handle sensitive situations with professionalism.
Key Responsibilities
Working with Students
*Respond quickly and effectively to safeguarding concerns
*Provide targeted support and early help for vulnerable students, including those who are LAC, on CP or CIN plans
*Carry out home visits where appropriate
Working with Staff, Parents & External Agencies
*Ensure staff follow safeguarding procedures and policies
*Collaborate with teaching, pastoral, and attendance teams to improve student outcomes
*Support multi-agency planning and communication with families
*Advise staff on safeguarding decisions and referrals
*Lead and attend safeguarding meetings, including case conferences
Referrals & Record-Keeping
*Make referrals to social care, Channel, or police when required
*Ensure accurate and detailed safeguarding records are maintained
Training & Compliance
*Keep up to date with safeguarding training (e.g. Prevent, FGM, Early Help)
*Support compliance with safeguarding legislation and Prevent Duty
*Contribute to staff training and policy development
Raising Awareness
*Promote a strong safeguarding culture across the school
*Ensure policies are clear, accessible, and consistently applied
*Understand and respond to the needs of vulnerable groups, including SEND students and young carers
Additional Duties
*Ensure secure transfer of safeguarding files when students move schools
*Contribute to reports for Trustees
*Maintain strict confidentiality and data protection standards
About You
*Recent and relevant UK school safeguarding experience
*Previous experience as a DSL, Deputy DSL, or Safeguarding Lead
*Confident working with vulnerable students, families, and external agencies
*Available to start immediately after Easter
If you’re an experienced safeguarding professional looking for a flexible, part-time opportunity with an immediate start, we’d love to hear from you.