The role in a nutshell 

We are seeking to recruit an outstanding enthusiastic and dedicated Pastoral and Safeguarding Lead to join our team. 

The role is essential in providing support to pupils across the academy and play a role, with others, in working proactively to break down barriers to learning. This includes overseeing interventions to engage the pupils in their provisions to reduce the risk of suspensions and improving attendance. The role is also essential in planning and delivering practical support, advice and guidance to the providers and vulnerable families/pupils to reduce the risk of being referred to social care, ensuring families recognise their roles and responsibilities in the education of their children. You will advise and support the providers on child welfare, safeguarding and child protection matters, and liaise with relevant agencies such as the local authority and police.   

As a deputy DSL for Unity Academy, you will undertake the day-to-day monitoring and resolution of concerns raised, using face-to-face contact and the secure online reporting system CPOMS to respond to safeguarding issues raised by staff, pupils and parents/carers. Each of the alternative provision providers have a designated safeguarding lead in place. You will be readily available to support staff and pupils in each setting, and ready to hear and record their views then agree well-informed supportive measures to address their concerns.    

You should have a knowledge of strategies to engage and motivate young people and families. You will be a natural problem solver and have experience of working closely with other external agencies, sometimes with highly confidential information and complex scenarios. You will have an excellent and up-to-date knowledge of legislation and guidance on safeguarding and working with young people, including knowledge of the responsibilities of schools and other agencies. You will take part in strategy discussions and inter-agency meetings; contribute to the assessment of children; and contribute to the evaluation of support strategies and plans.