Deputy DSL

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead – Somerset; West Hatch TA3 5RH and Hambridge TA10 0BG

Salary: £30,000 - £38,000 | Full Time (40 hours/week)

Purpose of Role

To support on responsibility for safeguarding and child protection within the school, ensuring that all pupils, particularly those who have experienced trauma or challenging circumstances, are protected from harm. The Deputy DSL will support the implementation of safeguarding policies and procedures, promote a culture of vigilance, and ensure staff adhere to the highest standards of professional conduct as outlined in the Staff Code of Conduct.

At Somerset Progressive School

Somerset Progressive School prides itself on being very unique. Both sites are set in rural locations on the outskirts of Taunton. Each site offers an attractive and stimulating learning environment, combining specialised teaching facilities with local resources. 

There is a high staff to pupil ratio with most receiving 1:1 tuition or working in small groups.  Pupils are encouraged to work alongside others and co-operatively in pairs and small groups, as the development of social skills and independent work strategies are vital.

Key Responsibilities

• We are seeking a highly motivated, enthusiastic specialist who can continue to support students with individual needs and to ensure they achieve and believe in themselves, as well as preparing them for the next steps and adulthood
• As a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead within our school, you will be providing professional learning and development for all pupils through establishing personalised learning routes directly line managing into the current DSL
• Have a deep and accurate understanding of the school’s strategies for improvement
• Providing exemplary pastoral care across the school
• Ensuring safeguarding measures are robust and efficient across both sites
• Identifying safeguarding trends and reporting these to the wider Senior Leadership Team
• Develop strong relationships with professional services and community groups
• Maintaining accurate records of behaviour incidents
• Supporting on behaviour and safeguarding across the school as directed

Requirements

• A committed and passionate view of students with SEND
• At least two years’ experience minimum of working in a SEND environment or similar unit/provision 
• Are a committed designated Safeguarding Lead, with a belief that all children and young people deserve an outstanding education regardless of their past experiences
• Experience in a Safeguarding role in education

Benefits of Joining Keys

• NEST enhanced pension scheme
• Staff Referral Scheme – Refer a friend to join Keys and split a £500 referral bonus between you
• Enhanced maternity and paternity pay
• Access to a blue light discount card 
• Fully funded training and qualifications for all colleagues
• Enhanced pay scales based on experience and qualifications
• Employee benefits scheme such as wellbeing app and a range of discounts  
• Life assurance

Keys Education is a national network of alternative learning solutions and pathways, designed to support learners with diverse needs to achieve their goals and realise their potential. It helps individuals with support needs build stability, resilience, and a sense of belonging through Connected Support.