Trust Safeguarding Lead at North Star Academy Trust

A rewarding opportunity to lead safeguarding practice across the trust and make a lasting difference to the lives of children and young people with SEND.

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) to take strategic responsibility for safeguarding and child protection across the trust . This pivotal role will lead on the development and implementation of safeguarding policies, procedures, and training, ensuring full compliance with statutory requirements and that safeguarding is embedded at the heart of the Trusts culture. The successful candidate will work closely with senior leadership, staff, external agencies, and families to promote the welfare of children and ensure effective multi-agency collaboration. 

You will play a critical role in supporting vulnerable students, managing safeguarding concerns, and providing expert advice, training, and guidance to staff. With extensive experience of safeguarding in education and multi-agency working, you will demonstrate strong knowledge of current safeguarding legislation, child protection practices, and issues such as SEMH, trauma, and ACEs. You will be a confident communicator with excellent organisational, analytical, and interpersonal skills, capable of building strong relationships, influencing practice, and driving continuous improvement to achieve positive outcomes for all students. 

You will have:

• Proven safeguarding experience working with children or young people, ideally within education. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships and provide advice and training. 
• Strong organisational and analytical skills, with experience of handling sensitive cases and maintaining accurate records.

• Strong knowledge of safeguarding legislation and statutory guidance (e.g. KCSIE), including child protection and support for vulnerable pupils.

• Advanced safeguarding/child protection training and experience of multi-agency working. 

• A commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and improving outcomes for children, with resilience and the ability to manage competing priorities. 

• Applicants are advised to refer to the full requirements of the role in the attached job description and person specification, prior to submitting an application.

Why Join Us?

• Play a key strategic role supporting SEMH schools and their communities
• Work within a supportive trust with a strong safeguarding culture
• Ongoing professional development opportunities
• Make a positive impact for children and families across Bristol and other neighbouring authorities.

You will be part of:

• An exciting and innovative development of an all-through learning community
• A dedicated team of staff who strive for excellence
• A caring and inclusive ethos
• A school which has supportive Trustees and Parents with high expectations of the school.

In return, we offer a competitive salary, pension, a genuinely supportive team, training and development and the potential for career progression for the right person.

Safeguarding Statement

North Star Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children , young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment . This appointment is subject to an enhanced DBS check and positive references.