Vacancy for Welfare & Safeguarding lead

Salary: Grade 10, Point 28-32

Hours of work: 37 Hours per week/41 weeks per year (Term Time plus 3 Weeks)

We are seeking to appoint a skilled practitioner who will adopt the role of Designated Safeguarding Lead across the academy and also lead on family support. This role, directly supports the Head Teacher and SENDCO. The successful candidate will have significant knowledge of safeguarding policies, procedures, and practices, together with experience of working with a range of agencies and professionals. They will also have experience of working in an education environment with young people with specific difficulties and vulnerabilities, or those in need of early help support.

The Opportunity:

• Work closely with the , Headteacher, and SENDCO to ensure the welfare of students attending the academy
• Act as designated safeguarding lead for the academy, overseeing the child protection work and cause for concern records for the whole academy
• Take responsibility for child protection and for those students looked after by the Local Authority in liaison with other senior DCP leaders
• Work with vulnerable children and their families as identified by the Headteacher for inclusion and undertake assessment, including Early Help Assessments. Develop a plan that meets their needs, addresses family issues and supports them to access appropriate services to enhance the team around the family

The ideal candidate:

• Will support the most vulnerable children and families which may include children with behavioural issues or adults requiring parenting support
• Able to lead the academy child protection team
• Undertake early help assessments to develop a plan that meets vulnerable children/ families’ needs and supports them to access appropriate services to enhance the team around the family
• Work directly with targeted students to raise achievement
•  Contribute to the wider life of the academy
• Is committed to helping children succeed
• Is kind, friendly and understanding
• Has the ability to see where and how they can help children make their next steps
• Will commit time and enthusiasm to our team
• Can act on their own initiative

About Meridian Trust –

Meridian Trust is a values-led organisation formed in 2011 that has risen to be one of the highest-performing academy trusts in the country. The Trust is founded on its commitment to a high-quality educational provision for all at the heart of local communities. Meridian currently operates primary, secondary and special schools across Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, Lincolnshire and Northamptonshire. 

Meridian Trust offers a wealth of fantastic benefits for teaching and support staff which are highlighted below but are not limited to - 

• Apprenticeship and CPD opportunities which allow you to gain specialist knowledge in a role you are passionate about developing in
• Opportunity to jump start your career in teaching through our dedicated Initial Teacher Training Team (ITT)
• Support for mental health and wellbeing through our Employee Assistance Programme and other resources
• Cycle to work scheme
• Defined benefit local government or Teacher’s pension scheme
• Healthcare benefits including free eye test vouchers and flu vaccinations
• Free on-site parking
• Discounts on a wide range of benefits from everyday essentials to holidays         

To explore our full range of benefits, please visit https://www.meridiantrust.co.uk/jobs-and-training/benefits/. 

For more information about the role please download the Applicant Information Pack below.

Closing date for applications:  22nd January 2025

Interviews will be held on:  Week Commencing 29th January 2025

Meridian Trust reserves the right to close the applications early in the event that a suitable candidate is sourced.

The Trust is committed to diversity and inclusion and equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All

appointments will be subject to pre-employment checks, including an enhanced check with the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS), as well as online searches.